Betty Jo Long

Betty Jo Long, a beloved matriarch of her family and a pillar of her community, passed away peacefully on September 6 2024, at Silver Bluff Village. Born on August 11, 1931, in Haywood County, Betty Jo led a life rich in experiences, love, and unwavering faith.

Growing up in an era where agriculture was foundational, Betty Jo's early life was filled with the joys of milking cows and nurturing a garden that provided sustenance for many. Her strong work ethic carried on into her adult years, where from 1967 to 1974, she worked alongside her business partner and brother-in-law, Norman Long, at the Texaco Gas Station, infusing her days with industrious charm and a reliable presence.  An education at Bethel High School not only showcased her academic abilities but also highlighted her talent as a standout basketball player in the 1940s. Her spirit of determination and teamwork remained a defining feature throughout her life.  Betty Jo was deeply involved in her community, especially through her faith at Bethel Baptist Church. Her commitment to serving others is abundantly clear—she worked with the Senior Adults and led the Senior Adult Sunday School class, touching the lives of many with her kindness and wisdom.

She is survived by her loving family that includes her daughters, Lou Ann Allen and husband Brian, Mitzi Warren and husband Daniel; her sons, Armon Long and wife Hilda, Danny Long and wife Darlene, Tommy Long and wife April, all from the Bethel Community, mourn her loss. She is further survived by her sister, Shirley Leatherwood of Canton, and her brother, JC Gorrell of Rogersville, Alabama. In addition, Betty Jo leaves behind an impressive legacy of 14 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren, who will carry her memory forward.

Betty Jo is preceded in death by her parents, Robert Clyde and Jessie Mae Pless Gorrell, her beloved husband, Henson Long of 71 years who passed away in 2020, a great-granddaughter, Alice Quinn Rayburn, and her sister, Birdell Wheeler.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at Wells Funeral Home Chapel in Canton. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until service time at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service at Bethel Community Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers are to made Bethel Community Cemetery Fund, 154 Kelly Springs Road, Waynesville, NC 28786.

The care of Mrs. Long has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Canton.