After a life of serving others in her capacity as mother, grandmother and nurse, Mary Ann James Long has answered the call to her eternal home.
She passed away peacefully on July 19th, surrounded by her loving family.

She was very proud of her achievements in nursing. As a RN she served for many years in varying areas including director of nursing, intensive care, trauma units, geriatrics and even prison infirmary. She came out of retirement multiple times just to care for patients on the floor and also in the classroom, teaching the next generation of nurses.

Mary Ann was an excellent cook who became famous for her holiday meals. Many people were grateful to be working the Thanksgiving or Christmas shift with her just to enjoy her chicken and dressing. Many meals were prepared for and enjoyed by those at Harris Hospital, Regional One Medical Center, UT Bold and Ridgecrest Nursing Home just to name a few.

She certainly packed a lot of care, love and fun into her 83 years. She enjoyed many years of adventures with all her girlfriends and loved sharing their stories with her family. From road trips, horse and dog races, dancing the night away to bands in Memphis, casino trips or simply a dinner with the girls there was always a great story to be told. She also enjoyed her time with her family and her tv shows. Her grandchildren have fond memories of watching cooking shows, CSI, and her guy, Dog the Bounty Hunter, under her electric blanket but their most cherished memories are her delicious dinners.

She is survived by her son, Heath & Jennifer Long, her grandchildren, Menley Long, Reagan & Ryan Fink, Carter-Reece Long & Caroline Lilly as well as her great grandchildren, Mary Grace, Beaux and Conrad.

The family would like to thank all her devoted friends and caregivers who provided such wonderful care during her medical battles. We take comfort knowing she has been reunited with her mother, Annie.

A memorial and interment will be announced at a later date. For those wanting to send a memorial please consider Arkansas State University College of Nursing & Health Professions.