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Donna Long Obituary
Donna was born July 12, 1946, a daughter of Joseph Edward Long and Ada Jane (Osgood) Long, in Monroe, Michigan. That date was her parents' first wedding anniversary. She was predeceased by her father and her long-term partner, James Gist.
She graduated from Ida High School having made many life-long friends and enjoyed her work on the school newspaper, at the Ida Variety Store, and dancing at Hickory Park. She received the DAR Good Citizens Award as did her mother before her.
Donna earned a bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University, with majors in journalism and English. She was copy editor for the CMU newspaper and active in student government. She was a reporter for the Mount Pleasant Daily News for a year after college, before heading to New York. Donna had additional coursework at the New School and New York University, and attended the IBM Community Executive Program.
She considered herself a "child of the '60s" and an evidence-based optimist.
From 1988-2013, Donna was the vice president of development for the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), a non-profit organization that expands business opportunities for more than 15,000 minority-owned companies of all sizes. NMSDC encourages mutually beneficial economic links between minority suppliers and the public and private sectors, and helps build a stronger, more equitable society by supporting and promoting minority business development.
NMSDC member corporations' purchases from Asian, Black, Hispanic and Native American businesses exceed $100 billion each year.
Before joining the National Minority Supplier Development Council, Donna was an assistant director in the Fund Department of the National Urban League for 16 years and the director of development and public affairs for the New York Urban League for two years. Donna also gave generously of her time, expertise and other resources as a volunteer with several Harlem based art and culture organizations in New York.
She enjoyed working for charismatic, visionary and exceptionally intelligent leaders, especially Harriet R. Michel, Whitney M. Young, Jr. and Vernon E. Jordan, Jr. She also appreciated guidance and encouragement from John Tebbel, author and chairman of NYU's journalism department, and William R. Simms, a founder of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.
Donna is survived by her mother, Ada; sister, Jan Miller (Claude Groves) and four brothers, Dale (Ann), John (JoMarie); Larry (Larry Johnson) and Ralph (Sue); ten nieces and nephews, ten great-nieces and great-nephews, eight cousins and many cherished friends. Donna considered herself blessed to have a loving step-daughter, Rachelle Gist Broner (Will) and five exceptional people who called her Grandma-Donna.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 25, at 11 a.m. at the Church of the Epiphany in New York City, followed by a luncheon.
Phone (212) 737-2720, The Rev. Jennifer A. Reddall, presiding.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in celebration of Donna Long's life may be made to the Church of the Epiphany's Wednesday Homeless Dinner Program (address below) or to the non-profit organization of your choice.
The Church of the Epiphany, 1393 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Donna Long
Nettie Seaberry
February 26, 2023
Not a day goes by that you aren't remembered. She gifted this pillow and it's prominently displayed. She was a light who's brightness will never dim. Continue to RIHP my friend.
Cherie Howard
April 24, 2021
Stunned to learn of Donna's passing. We go back to 1970 when we both worked on the 2nd floor of the National Urban League- she in the Fund Department and me in Communications. What fun memories and boy did we laugh. A loving, kind and generous soul. She never missed a birthday or a card at Christmas. I miss her. Forever in my heart.
Benita Fortner
February 26, 2021
I remember Donna with great love and very fond memories of our wonderful times together. My condolences to her family as I share in their continued grief and their never ending love for Donna
Nettie Seaberry
February 26, 2021
Donna, you will always be remembered as there are so many things that keep you ever present. Your were always composed and had an easy smile which just made you feel that it was all going to be alright. Will never forget the warmth shown to me at our first meeting. Those little things will always be treasured. Continue to rest in peace my friend.
Gina Bolden
March 4, 2020
Donna, you are forever loved and missed! ❤❤❤
February 28, 2020
Donna was part of the interview team for me. She was the warmest, most sincere person I'd ever met. She was kind, genteel, steadfast and so much more. There was only one Donna Long and I was blessed to have had her in my life. Left with so many memories, she will never be forgotten. Rest well my friend.
Benita Fortner
February 27, 2020
My heart goes out to Donnas family as I sooth my own heavy heart remembering her passing. I constantly remind myself of what great times we had together and how much I admired her steadfast yet gently approach to life. I loved her dearly and still do. I miss Donna every day
February 26, 2019
In loving memory of her kindness, her thoughtfulness and her loyal generosity to the children of Haiti...So special was she in every way....
Michele March
Dale Long
March 28, 2017
Thank you to all of Donna's and our friends for all of your kind words and remembrances. I know we all miss her and her thoughtful and caring ways.
Maria Bowerman
March 28, 2017
Our deepest sympathy. Donna was a wonderful person and I am glad I got to know her when she visited Ada at Independence Village in Grand Ledge. Bill also had an opportunity to speak with Donna and recall memories of the old neighborhood.
She will be missed.
Maria and Bill Bowerman
Maggie Chaparro
March 23, 2017
Thank you for your wisdom. The light of your spirit shines brightly upon everyone who you touched and experienced your kind, generous and humorous spirit. Thank you for being a blessing! My sincere condolences to friends and family.
Meta Mereday
March 21, 2017
My condolences to Donna's family and friends. I too am in shock about her loss, but I am blessed that I got to know Donna, to learn from her and to laugh with her. She was a true example of the family spirit that used to permeate through NMSDC. When I started at the NY/NJ Council, I remember that I could call on anyone at the National Office and help was readily available, especially from Donna. We were a family and looked out for each other in good times and bad! You have earned your rest. It is left to the rest of us to make sure your story gets told and that we share the love you gave so willingly!!
Dorothy Millines
March 16, 2017
It is still hard for me to believe that our beloved Donna has transitioned from this earthly life -- WAY TOO SOON!. She will be truly missed, however we do realize that she has only kept an appointment we all will have to keep. A genuine person of love and affection. To her family, be steadfast in God and know that He will help you in this time of bereavement. He can heal the broken heart and carry the heavy load. Rest in Him. Truly a Friend.
Ramona Candy
March 14, 2017
Donna ... your calm presence, your smile and your support will be greatly missed. You so appreciated talent, hard work and commitment to the arts and for this -- and more, I thank you! Donna ... may you now rest in peace.
Barbara Roan
March 13, 2017
Donna will be so missed by our dance community. She always had a kind word and knew all about each one of us.
Vonn (Wayne) McComb
March 13, 2017
To the family of Donna,
As a member of the 1964 graduating class of Ida High School, I remember Donna for her love of people and her generosity. I have often thought about her. My sincere condolences.
Gina Bolden
March 8, 2017
As I sit here in shock searching for words to say about Donna, I can only weep. We all know that she had a heart of GOLD! Her loving, caring, kind soul will be truly missed!
March 7, 2017
To the family and friends of Donna, I share this loss and hold you in my thoughts and prayers. Rest in peace, Donna.
Barbara Holt
March 7, 2017
Carol Foster
March 7, 2017
Donna was a friend to all a very talented, committed and caring person. Her kindness will not be forgotten. May light perpetual shine upon her. My sincere condolences to her family.
Deloris Johnson
March 7, 2017
I am so sad to hear about the passing of Donna Long and my heartfelt condolences are with her family. Donna was such a special woman that had a loving and caring heart. Whenever I needed assistance and reached out to Donna at the NMSDC, we would first giggle like two school girls as we talked about matters at hand and then she would advise me as to what my next steps should be and I will always be forever grateful for her guidance and support. The world has definitely lost an Angel.
Irma Tobar
March 6, 2017
Donna will always have a pice of my heart the most generous, kind and very helpful person. My sincere condolences to the family and friends. May God bless the family with peace and comfort at this time.
March 6, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. I had the honor of working with Donna at the National Urban League. We conducted training seminars for our affiliate guilds and I learned, along with the participants, about the nuances of preparing for fund raising events. She was the consummate professional and will be missed.
Vincent Austin
Barbara Staples
March 6, 2017
My heartfelt condolences to Donna's loving family. We will all miss Donna and her quiet friendly spirit. She is resting in the arms of Jesus.
March 6, 2017
In loving memory of the most genuine, considerate, giving spirit ever...Donna's kindness to the children of Haiti will never be forgotten... Much Love to her family and this very sad time.
Michele March
March 6, 2017
Donna was and will always be one of NMSDC's finest. Her dedication, professionalism and kindness set her apart in a very special way. She was a mentor to many of us, I cannot believe that she is gone.
My deepest and sincere condolences to the family and friends. May God bless the family with peace and comfort in this unfortunately time.
Gladys Conde, Hackensack, N.J.
benita fortner
March 6, 2017
My heart goes out to Donna's family and friends. Donna had and will always have a piece of my heart. She was truly a bright light in my life. I will miss her.
Arleen Edwards
March 6, 2017
My condolences to Donna's family and to those whose hearts she touched. She will be missed. May her memory live on.
Roland Brack
March 6, 2017
Donna was a beautiful person who added joy to any gatherings. This sad news is softened by so many happy memories.
Annette Ficucello
March 6, 2017
I cannot think of Donna without seeing her beautiful smile. She was always too kind, too caring, too helpful. Donna left us too soon and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Barbara Holt
March 6, 2017
My condolences to the Long family, may the Lord give you comfort at this difficult time. Donna was a friend to all and we will miss her dearly.
Nicole Hambric
March 6, 2017
Donna Long was an amazing woman with a heart of gold. If you needed something, she was right there to lend a helping hand. It was a pleasure and a blessing to know her. She will be missed by many.
March 6, 2017
Beloved friend of over 30+ years, loyal sister in time I cannot count, I cannot believe I am on the other side of the world (Australia) when you left. You who asked so little but always gave so much to everyone around you with genuine cheer, a constant smile, and joyful heart. With heavy heart and streaming tears, I prayed the outcome otherwise. What was to be would be. You will always be my cherished friend from whatever the distance. You will always be the treasured one whose good, kind and gentle spirit will resonate in the foundation of love. Along the beach this morning I thought about our morning musings, afternoon chats and many conversations. I gave words and thoughts to the waves of the Indian Ocean to be refreshed and renewed in the wake of your leaving as a reminder of a living and eternal love. My heart holds a space just for you.
Lana Turner
March 6, 2017
Thank You for all the help and lessons
. Rest in peace.
KOOGE
Prendy Morant
March 6, 2017
Ms. Long always had a smile when I would see her and a willing spirit to assist all. You'll be missed dearly.
Clovia Chisolm
March 5, 2017
Donna was an amazing lady. I will always remember how kind and caring she was. Even thought we lost touch she is the one person I can truly say I remember as loyal and selfless humanitarian. May she rest in peace
Sharmagne Taylor
March 5, 2017
Saddened to hear of the passing of Donna Long. I had the honor of working with her as an MBE with NMSDC assigned to food and beverage events. She built strong relationships with its sponsors and kept her focus on maintaining that bond. She worked hard and stayed late,to get the job done. May God comfort her family and friends during this time of loss. She will be missed!
Nettie Seaberry
March 5, 2017
Donna had a heart of gold and never met a stranger. She had an incredible memory and a generous and kind spirit. She left us way too soon and will be dearly missed by many but never forgotten by all whose path she crossed.
Eleanore Wells
March 5, 2017
Tears...for one of the nicest people I know
AC
March 5, 2017
May mercy and peace and love be increased to you during this sad and difficult time. Jude 2.
March 5, 2017
Donna was a sweet woman she always had a smile on her face she was loved by so many friends and family and will be missed dearly but won't be forgotten. Rest In Peace sweet Donna.
Love from Eileen & Mike Jordan
Nettie Seaberry
March 5, 2017
Donna was part of a dynamic duo to interview me for my a job where I would come to know her as a sincerely warm and utterly delightful friend for more than 20 years. She was caring and always made time for you no matter how busy she was. I will cherish our last time spent together, with fine dining, stimulating conversation, lots of laughter and true friendship. She's gone way too soon but will never be forgotten. RIP dear friend. I offer my sincere condolences to her family and loved ones during this time of bereavement.
Anita Green
March 5, 2017
God bless Donna. It's been many years my sister since we worked at the NUL but I will always remember your kind and supportive spirit.
Sharon Iannece
March 5, 2017
Such a special loving and caring person has left us to soon! I will miss not seeing you at Dale's and Ann home... Thanksgiving will never be the same....Donna I enjoy our last talk before dropping you off at the Hicksville station on Thanksgiving night never thinking when WE hug each other good-bye it would be good-bye! Prayers God will watch over all your love ones during this very difficult time....Watch over us Donna and sprinkle down some Blessings! Love you and God Bless!
Donna Long, Suzette Eaddy and Harriet Michel
Suzette Eaddy
March 5, 2017
I have no words...Gone way too soon.
Donna was a phenomenal woman. I can't believe that she is gone. I owe a lot to Donna. I learned so much from her. Over the 40+ years that we have known each other, we shared a lot. You couldn't ask for a better friend. She was more like family to me than a friend. She will truly be missed by many. Rest in peace, my friend. Until we meet again...
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