Livonia: At age 91, Shirley passed peacefully on March 9, 2020. Predeceased by her husband, O. Richard Long Jr. Survived by her loving daughters; Karen (Dan) Finch and Nancy (Brian) Greenwald; grandchildren, Matthew (Anne) Finch, Michael Finch, Jonathan (Jackie) Finch, Adam Greenwald, Amy (Tom) Langworthy; and felt blessed to enjoy her many greatgrandchildren.
Shirley lived a life dedicated to her daughters and her husband. She was a loving mother, grandmother and “Grammie” to her ever-growing family. She was a hostess extraordinaire, welcoming her children, extended family, and friends into her and Richard’s home and also into their cabin, “Grandpa’s Park,” in Prattsburgh, NY. She worked several jobs that allowed her to always be home with her school age daughters including school crossing guard and part time sales person at Sibley’s Downtown. For over 25 years she worked at Monroe High School in Rochester, NY where she was a paraprofessional and served as president of the paraprofessional’s union. Shirley rose to be a leader in all her volunteer organizations, jumping in with both feet and accepting any responsibility that would cause the organization to be of service to the community. She was a devoted member of Emmanuel and Grace United Methodist Churches in Rochester and, more recently, the United Methodist Church of Livonia. She lived her life with an open heart and an open home.
Calling hours will be held at the United Methodist Church of Livonia, 21 Summers Street, Livonia, NY on Wednesday, March 11th, from 4 to 7p.m. Shirley’s funeral service will be held at the same location at 1 p.m. on Thursday, March 12th. Burial will follow at Union Cemetery, Livonia, NY.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 160 Allens Creek Road, Rochester, NY 14618, or to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Upstate NY Office, 1000 Elmwood Ave., Suite 900, Rochester, NY 14620. To send a condolence or share a memory, please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com.
Dear Karen and Nancy:
I want you to know how sorry I was to learn the sad news about your mother. She and I became acquainted many years ago at Monroe High School, where we worked together in the library. I’ll always remember her as such a wonderfully warm and good-humored person who made everyone around her feel good. She always spoke of both of you with such love–you were lucky to have such a great mother!
Judy Goldstein
Karen, Dan and family, We extend our deepest sympathy as you come together to remember and celebrate your mom’s and grandmother’s beautiful loving life.
Joan and Buzz
I just learned of Shirley’s passing. Digital hugs to the entire family. She was a connection to Grace United Methodist church we enjoyed worshiping together when our children were younger. You were all so good to her during her autumn years. Thank You for that. RIP SHIRLEY Long!
Karen, Dan and all the family.
So many warm memories of this strong and kind woman.
My sympathy for this loss to you, and my joy in her birth to new life.
Sending love to each or you.
Bunny
Karen, Dan, Matt and the rest of Shirley’s family,
May God wrap his loving arms around you all at this difficult but holy time. I wish I could be there but I am on bed rest.
God bless you,
Pastor Pam K
Dear Matt, Anne and family I’m sorry For your loss of grammie she was a wonderful Lady she will Live on in my heart and prayers.
My deepest sympathy for your loss. Your sweet mom was a wonderful friend to my mom, Kay. She was also one heck of a Para at MHS! She knew how to keep a study hall a study hall! She and your dad were a lovely couple. I can still remember (and hear) their joyful contagious laughter. Wishing you comfort from your warm and loving memories.
Aunt Shirley will be greatly missed. It seems like she’s always been there. The three sisters, Shirley, Evelyn (Mom), and Doris were some the most loving women ever.
Dear Karen, Dan, Matt, Anne and family, I was deeply saddened to learn of Shirley’s passing. She will always hold a special place in my heart. She was truly a loving, kind sincere lady who blessed us all with her smile, her wit and strong faith. I was blessed to know her and will think of her fondly always, especiallly on our shared birthdays. May God give you all strength and comfort in the coming days and bless you with many special memories to carry in your hearts. Sending love and prayers, Sharon
Karen, Dan and family,
With deep sympathy for your loss , may your memories bring you peace.
Dianne Krenzer
My sincerest condolences. I’m picturing her in the loving arms of Jesus!
God be with you during this difficult time. We are praying for peace and comfort for you. May all your wonderful memories of good times bring you happy times.
Hugs, Gene & Sue
Dear Karen, Dan, Matt, Anne and family,
Your mother/grandmother blessed so many people with her faith and kindness. We will miss her smile but we are full of hope for the joy she is experiencing now.
God bless your family as you celebrate the homegoing of one of God’s most special Mom’s.
With sincere sympathy.
Lou
Dear Matt, Anne and family,
Our deepest sympathy for the loss of your sweet grandma. She was a wonderful lady. God Bless you all.
In God’s love and grace.
Kim and Glenn Richardson and family
So sorry about your loss of Grammie. She was such a sweet lady and enjoying heaven as your angel.