Margaret Bane Long's Obituary
Surrounded by her loving family, Margaret Bane Long, 99, passed away on September 22, 2023.
Margaret was the cherished Mother to Constance Long Michael and Douglas Allan Long (Tracey).
Adoring Mammy (grandmother) to Wendy Long Tonkin (James), Paul Frederick Michael (Jennifer), Kelly Michael Mercurio (David), Ashley Long Mushegan (Aram), Abbey Long Allee, William Chandler Dobson (Stephanie), Sophia Ruth Long, and Elijah Bane Long; as well as to her great grandchildren, Scott (Erin), Carson, Gabrielle, Amelia, Stella, Landon, Lillian, Jamison, Isla, Hudson, and Garner; beloved sister to Allan Bane (Anita) and Mildred Bane Waters (the late William Waters).
She was predeceased by her husband, Clyde Demeris Long; and her parents, Guerney Ogden Bane and Elizabeth Allan Bane.
Margaret was born in Covington, Kentucky on August 23, 1924. The family moved to Atlanta in 1935, when Southern Railway transferred Mr. Bane to Georgia, eventually finding a large farm near Mableton. Margaret graduated from Fitzhugh Lee School in 1942. There Margaret’s talent shone brightly receiving accolades as Most Versatile, Most Athletic Girl, and Wittiest Girl. Athleticism ran in her veins; Margaret won first place in the Cobb County Track Meet two years consecutively for the 100-yard dash. She led the varsity basketball team to successive state championships. Her love for sports continued throughout her life, with Margaret playing as the short stop for the very successful Lorelei Ladies, a semi-professional fast pitch softball team.
Her heart found love with Clyde Demeris Long and they married on November 22, 1944. Tragically, Clyde lost his life in 1953, serving as a Naval Aviator.
Margaret’s spirit and work ethic, symbolic of the Greatest Generation, were evident throughout her life. She co-owned and worked at the Bankhead Bowling Lanes, even participating in many of the league’s teams. Margaret worked alongside her father at the Southern Railroad, was also employed by her dear friend at Louise’s Beauty Shop, and was a dedicated bus driver for the Cobb County School System for over ten years, serving in the lunchroom at Harmony Leland Grammar School in between routes.
Margaret was a Charter Member of Leland United Methodist Church. She served with dedication, a faithful supporter, often singing in the choir. She served the Cobb County community by helping to form girls’ softball leagues and was a dedicated leader in both Brownies and Girls Scouts. She later enjoyed her beautiful vegetable gardens, cheering for her favorite teams, The Atlanta Braves and Kentucky Wild Cats, and even parasailing at the age of 95. And of course, she always enjoyed cheering in the stands for her children, grandchildren, and even her great grandchildren! Margaret loved and supported them all, and made each of them feel special.
Margaret was a beacon of light. Her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched. She will be dearly missed.
Funeral services will be held Sunday, October 1st, 3:00 PM at Davis-Struempf Chapel with Rev. Millie Kim officiating. The family will receive friends on Saturday, September 30th, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Davis-Struempf Funeral Home. Private interment services will occur on Monday at Marietta National Cemetery.
In remembrance of Margaret, the family appreciates donations to the EOD Warrior Foundation at https://eodwarriorfoundation.org/
For anyone wishing to view the service virtually, a livestream link will be available on Mrs. Long's Tribute Page at www.davisstruempf.com at the above-listed service time.
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