Margaret M Long

Funeral services for Margaret Long, 92, of Knoxville, will be held Monday, July 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Knoxville. A luncheon and reception will follow the service for a time of sharing and fellowship. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Suncrest Hospice.

Margaret was born on July 25, 1932, to Hugh and Mildred (Schenk) Mathews on the family farm in Henry County, Iowa. She was raised alongside her brother, John, and attended a one-room schoolhouse through eighth grade before graduating from high school in 1950. She continued her education at Iowa Wesleyan College, where she earned her teaching certificate and was active in the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority.

Margaret met Don H. Long in the late 1950s, and they were married in 1962. Together they built a life full of love and joy, beginning their married life in Donnellson before moving to Mount Pleasant and eventually settling in Knoxville in 1969. Their 63 years of marriage were filled with the blessings of family, friendship, and shared adventures.

A dedicated educator, Margaret began her teaching career in a one-room country school in Lee County. She later spent many years teaching reading to 5th and 6th graders in Knoxville, retiring in 1987 after 31 years of service. Her students and colleagues remember her warmth, patience, and passion for learning.

Margaret's favorite role was that of a devoted wife, caring mother, and loving grandmother. She was known for her warm hospitality, her talent in the kitchen, and her ability to host guests with ease and grace. Her homemade chicken and noodles were a family favorite and a staple at many gatherings.

In retirement, Margaret enjoyed traveling with Don, including cherished time spent at their home in North Carolina. She found joy in tending her garden, reading, watching old movies, and cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, Duke basketball, and even rodeos and bull riding.

Margaret passed away peacefully at home on July 17, 2025. She will be deeply missed by her beloved husband of 63 years, Don Long; her children: Matt Driscoll and Karen Long; her grandchildren: Jeff (Amy) Driscoll, Kimberly (Derek) Sansone, Margaret Driscoll, Dillon Driscoll, Lyndsey (Chris) Stuchel-Quady, and Jessica Turner; great-grandchildren: Clay, Cameron, and Luca; as well as many extended family members and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Hugh and Mildred Mathews; her son, Mike Driscoll; and her brother, John Mathews.

Margaret's life was one of kindness, generosity, and quiet strength. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.