Allene Long

1932 - 2025

Allene J. Long, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 27, 2025, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, at the age of 93.
Born on November 5, 1932, in Harbor Springs, Michigan, to Albert and Ethel Whitaker Stolt, Allene graduated from Harbor Springs High School in 1950. She went on to earn a degree in social work and teaching from Alma College, where she met her future husband, Phillip Long. They were both members of Alma's A Cappella Choir and married in 1954. Their loving union lasted until Phillip's passing in 2008.
Allene dedicated over three decades to nurturing young minds as an elementary school teacher in the Reed City school district. Her commitment to education was matched by her devotion to her community and the environment. She was a founding member and active volunteer at the Mecosta County recycling center and served faithfully for many years as a member of the United Church of Big Rapids.
In 2010, Allene suffered a debilitating stroke that took her ability to speak. Despite this profound challenge, she remained resilient and steadfast in her faith. One enduring comfort to her family was that she never lost the ability to say "I love you."
She was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather Lloyd Fisher; husband Phillip; and brother Edwin Stolt. She is survived by her children: Chris Long (Tricia), Barry Long, Melissa Long (Marco Seabra), and Camilla Martin (Matthew Riegler); grandchildren: Tara, Erin, Alicia, Ginny, Nancy, Phillip, Whitaker, Margaret Allene, Arielle, and Anson; twelve great-grandchildren; nieces Sheila Haen and Felicia Norman; and sister-in-law Rosemary Stolt.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Donations may be made in Allene's name to the Little Traverse Conservancy or the United Church of Big Rapids.