Betty Staton LONG

Betty Staton Long, 81, of Troutville, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, October 18, 2013 at her home with members of her family by her side. She was preceded in death by her parents, Talmadge and Claudine Staton. Betty served the Lord in many capacities throughout her life. While a member of Belmont Baptist Church, she was a teacher in the Youth Ministry for many years and worked with the G.A.'s and Acteens. She was also a member of the W.M.U., and taught the T.E.L. Sunday School class. She later joined North Roanoke Baptist Church and served as Assistant Sunday School Teacher in the Adult Woman's Sunday School Class. She was very active in the Auxiliary of the Gideons International and served on the state cabinet, as well as holding many offices in the Roanoke City East Camp. Betty was a faithful servant of God and lived her life in a Godly manner.
As a hobby, Betty enjoyed writing stories and poems. She created many poems for weddings, birthdays and other special occasions. She will be especially remembered for the inspirational stories that she shared with others during the Christmas season.
She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and friend. She will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched.
The family wishes to thank the caregivers from Home Instead Senior Care, who provided many years of excellent personal care to Betty and to Carilion Hospice for their support and dedication during her last days.
Surviving are her husband of 59 years, Ellsworth H. "Sonny" Long Jr.; daughter, Jean McGuire, and her husband Todd of Charlotte Hall, Md.; son, William Long and his wife Julie of Weston, Fla.; six grandchildren, Talon, Claudia and Lochlan McGuire, and Jessica, Chace and Julian Long; sister-in-law, Patricia Huffman and husband, Richard; and brother-in-law, Donald Long, and wife Patricia; many other nieces; nephews; and cousins.
Funeral Services will be held at 12 p.m. on Tuesday October 22, 2013 at Oakey's Vinton Chapel with the Rev. John W. Fox and the Rev. Dr. Darryl G. Crim officiating. Burial will follow in Sherwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4 to 8 p.m. on Monday, October 21, 2013 at Oakey's Vinton Chapel.