
In Loving Memory
MR
Marian R. Long
June 16, 1931 — August 25, 2026
Marian R. Long, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, went home to be with the Lord on August 25, 2026. Born on June 16, 1931, in Roseville, Tennessee, Marian lived a life filled with love, service, and devotion to her family and community.
The daughter of William Cecil Lemmons and Janie Lee Fuller, Marian was predeceased by her parents, brothers William Arthur Lemmons and Ronald Lee Lemmons, and her first husband, James Alvin Reed. She is survived by her devoted husband of 50 years, Robert W. Long, her loving daughter Deborah Reed Roach and son-in-law Frank, cherished grandchildren James Matthew Roach (Shannon) and Rebekah Ashley Pease (Daniel), and adored great-grandchildren Ezra Pease and Bekah Roach. Marian also leaves behind her sisters Evelyn Friedman and Jane Farrar (Bobby), along with a large extended family including sisters-in-law Linda Martin (Paul), Glenda Ruth Riolo, Carolyn Lemmons, brother-in-law David Reid (Bonnie), Leslie Elliott (Wanda), and numerous nieces and nephews.
Marian and her first husband, James, married on May 26, 1951, after meeting at a church function. They shared 21 years together, raising their daughter Deborah and remembering their infant daughter Rebecca, who passed at four months of age. After James’s passing in 1972, Marian found love again with Robert White Long, marrying him on September 3, 1976. Together, they enjoyed 50 years of marriage, sharing passions for golf, Vanderbilt basketball, and travel.
A dedicated educator, Marian graduated from Bell Buckle High School in 1949 and earned her B.S. in Education from Austin Peay University. She spent 38 wonderful years teaching 3rd and 4th grade, forming lifelong bonds with many of her students. After retiring from the Metro Board of Education, she continued her commitment to children at the Allegro School of Music in Inglewood for 27 years, where a Scholarship Fund was created in her honor.
Marian was a pillar of her community, a member of Inglewood Baptist Church for over 65 years. Her involvement in the choir, handbells, children’s choirs, and Sunday School teaching created lasting friendships and memories. Her love for God and family was evident in everything she did.
A woman of many talents, Marian loved to cook and entertain, often sharing homemade treats with friends and family. She delighted in sports, having played basketball in high school and enjoying tennis and golf throughout her life. Her passion for Vanderbilt ladies’ basketball and her enthusiastic support for her grandchildren’s activities brought her immense joy.
Marian's laughter was infectious, her love for her family boundless, and her friendships genuine. Her presence brought warmth and happiness to all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, faith, and love that will continue to inspire those she touched.
Services to honor Marian's life will be held on September 3, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Spring Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery, located at 5110 Gallatin Road, Nashville, TN 37216.
The family wishes to express their gratitude for the love and support shown during this difficult time. Marian touched so many lives, and her memory will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.