Gerri M. Long

Gerri M. Long, 68, of Indianapolis, IN, passed away on Thursday, September 25, 2025.

Born on August 9, 1957, to the late Bill and Ann Simmons, Gerri grew up with a vibrant spirit that defined her throughout her life. She graduated from Thomas Carr Howe High School in 1975, where she was known for her energy and athleticism as a cheerleader, gymnast, and accomplished AAU diver. A few years later, she married the love of her life, Howard Long, on June 4, 1977. They recently celebrated their 48th anniversary.

Gerri's greatest desire in life was to be a mother - a dream she fulfilled with unwavering love and devotion. She poured her heart into every birthday celebration and holiday gathering, creating a home filled with laughter, comfort, and unconditional love. To her, family wasn't just a priority - it was her life's purpose. She lived that purpose with grace, generosity, and an open heart as a wife, mother and grandmother.

Known as the life of the party, Gerri had an infectious smile that could light up any room. Whether she was dancing to one of her favorite songs or singing along with uncontainable joy, she brought laughter and happiness wherever she went. Her positive outlook on life remained strong, even during her courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia.

Gerri found great pleasure in life's simple joys - sitting by a fire, listening to music, watching her grandsons' activities, playing bunco with friends, enjoying a beautiful sunset, vacationing with family, announcing that she would someday be a multimillionaire lottery winner, looking forward to pizza Fridays, and drinking a fountain Diet Coke, among many others.

Gerri is lovingly remembered by her husband, Howard Long; her daughter, Erika LeCuyer; her son, Alan Long; her cherished grandsons, Aiden and Evan LeCuyer; her brother Mike Simmons and his wife Jane; her sister Anna Kennelly; and her brother-in-law Gary Dietz. She also held dear the memories of those who preceded her in death: her parents, Bill and Ann Simmons; and her sisters, Kathy Dietz and Elaina "Yani" Simmons. Gerri also leaves behind several nieces and nephews who were touched by her kindness and joyful presence.

Gerri had a special way of making each person feel seen, heard, and cherished. Her nurturing spirit will leave a lasting imprint on everyone fortunate enough to have known her. May her memory bring comfort and inspiration to all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of Gerri's life will be held on Sunday, November 16, 2025, from 1:00pm to 5:00pm, with a moment of prayer and remembrance at 3:00pm, at The Barn at SilverStone Farm, 6508 West 100 North, Greenfield, IN 46140.

Memorial contributions in Gerri's name may be sent by mail to the Lewy Body Dementia Association, 912 Killian Hill Road S.W., Lilburn, GA 30047 or online at www.lbda.org/donate.

♫ "...now I'm walking into the light." ♫