Madeline Long

MARBLE HILL, Mo. -- C. Madeline Long, 86, of Marble Hill passed away Friday, May 25, 2108, at Woodland Hills Nursing Home in Marble Hill.

She was born Sept. 17, 1931, in Flat River, Missouri, daughter of Toney Edward and Clova Rhoda Statler Crites. She and the Rev. Jessie Lee Long were united in marriage Oct. 2, 1948, and he passed away April 22, 2009.

To all who knew her, she was the strong yet loving preacher's wife. During her life, Madeline explored with Jessie many areas, acting as his right hand in helping establish churches within several communities. She was an avid musician, lighting up an accordion and piano on fire with her hands.

She worked several jobs as her children, Connie (Charlie) Guccione, Kevin (Linda) Long and Theresa (Cliff) Hamilton, were growing up. She worked at McDonnell Douglas on the line placing airplane parts as well.

During her younger years, she was active with her children in youth groups. Her biggest accomplishment was being a mother who loved without fail and with much guidance.

Madeline's grandchildren are Christina Guccione, Tashi (Matt) Frey, Toni (Shaun) Firle, Hollie (Todd) Dysinger, Jessie Sites, Courtnie (Duran) Harlan, Dana (Ryan) Wilson and Christina (Eric) Feyen. They were all blessed to enjoy many years with their "Grandma." She loved babysitting her grandchildren, where she spoiled and taught them about Jesus.

She loved all with a compassionate heart, which taught others how to love their own children.

Her 20 great-grandchildren and her great-great-grandchild were all the pride of her heart.

While in retirement, she was able to enjoy her active status within the Eastern Star and proudly proclaimed "Ruth" as her name. She loved to sing and play the piano with her children. The church choir and vacation Bible school volunteer became her favorite pastimes as well.

Madeline was a meticulous city girl with the heart of a country girl. Her heart was of gold. There was never a hungry soul around her. She was a natural nurturer to many of her extended family, who proudly called her "Aunt Madeline."

In her final years of her life, she created an extremely special bond with Lisa Reitzel, her caretaker. The family is extremely grateful for her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Loretta Cook; and grandchildren, Tony Serra and Aaron Sites.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. today at Liley Funeral Home in Marble Hill.

Funeral will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at the Lutesville General Baptist Church near Marble Hill, with the Revs. James Hamlett and Otis Long officiating. Burial will follow in Hurricane Fork Cemetery near Marble Hill.