Judith Long, 86, of Garland, Texas, passed away on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, in a hospital in Rowlett, Texas.

Judy was born in Austin, Texas to Felton Terrence and Mildred Stephens on August 16, 1940. She married James Darvin Long Jr. on December 27, 1957, and was a faithful partner for 52 years until his passing in 2009.

Judy attended Bob Jones Academy in Greeneville, South Carolina, and Tennessee Temple College in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

As a pastor's wife, Judy ministered from the piano and organ. She invested in many church members as a friend and a music mentor.

Judy and Jim had four sons J. David, Tim, J. Mark, and Paul, eight grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Befriending and investing in people continued as Judy worked to support individuals with disabilities at Orange Grove Center in Chattanooga and worked with college students as a work scholarship supervisor at Tennessee Temple University.

Judy attended Highland Park Baptist Church with her husband for many years where they served together as primary Sunday School teachers.

Kindness, helpfulness and thoughtfulness accompanied by a big smile are admirable qualities Judy exhibited that will be remembered. Even in later years when her body was weak, she remained kind and grateful to all those around her.

Judy is survived by her sons J. David (Tami), Tim (Debbie), J. Mark (Rose Anna), and Paul (Holly), eight grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by James D. Long Jr. (spouse), Terry Stephens, Clifford Stephens and Phillip Stephens (brothers).

There will be a graveside service at The Chattanooga National Cemetery, 1200 Bailey Ave., Chattanooga Tennessee on Tuesday, September 8, at 11:00 am, with a reception following in Lookout Mountain, Georgia. Friends and all those impacted by Judy's life are welcome to join us as we celebrate a special woman that meant so much to all of us.