Mary Long, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother,  aunt, and friend, passed away on Saturday,  August 16, 2025, at the age of 88, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 9, 1937, in the Barham Township in Franklin County, Arkansas, to the late Rellis Clyde Vinson and Mary Ellen (Samuels) Vinson. She was also preceded in death by a son, Donald McGhee; two sisters; and one brother.

Mary married the love of her life, Lester (Mitchell) Long in January of 1977, and together they built a life in Oklahoma and throughout Arkansas. A dedicated homemaker throughout most of their married years, Mary poured her heart into caring for her family and creating a warm welcoming home.

Mary enjoyed gardening, quilting, and baking, especially her pies during the holidays. She loved watching wrestling and listening to Charley Pride, and Christmas was her most treasured season when she made every detail special for her loved ones. Above all, Mary's greatest joy came from her family. She adored her grandchildren and took special delight in spoiling her great-grandbabies. She was known for her laughter, her sense of humor, and her ability to bring smiles to everyone she met. Mary will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her love, laughter, and the family traditions she leaves behind.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, August 22nd at Cemetery Ridge Cemetery, located south of Ozark, under the direction of Brotherton Brothers Funeral Home and Flower Shop in Charleston.

She is survived by two daughters, Debra Smith and husband Mike of Bristow, Oklahoma, and Darla Berard of Van Buren; two sons, Roger Gilliam of Charleston and Darrell Gilliam and wife Patricia of Sand Springs, Oklahoma; a step-son, Mitch Long; (8) grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her childhood friend and dearest friend, JoAnn Richards of Lavaca.

Pallbearers will be her family.

The family will visit with friends at 12:00 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. on Friday. Anyone who wishes to go to Cemetery Ridge Cemetery for the services will go together in a funeral procession from the funeral home at 1:40 p.m. Mary's favorite color was purple and the family requested everyone wear purple in her honor.

To place an online tribute, please visit www.brothertonbrothersfuneralhomes.com.