Mary’lin “Mary Adeline” Reece Long, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, teacher, artist, pianist, writer, and friend, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, love, and more than a few stories that her family will tell for years to come.

Mary’lin was born on January 3, 1941, in Hannibal, Missouri to Adeline Reece and Clarance Carson. She was lovingly raised by her grandparents, Willie and Carl Reece, and grew up in the Shower Springs, Arkansas community surrounded by family, friends, and the simple joys of country life. Those early years in the country remained some of her fondest memories throughout her life.

Mary’lin was a remarkable student. She graduated from Hope High School a year early at the age of 17 and was salutatorian of her class. She was intelligent, determined, and never one to shy away from learning something new—qualities that would serve her well throughout her life.

On Halloween night, October 31, 1960, Mary’lin met the love of her life, Hansford Jerry Long. It was a meeting that would change both of their lives forever. She and Hansford went on to spend 53 wonderful years together, and she affectionately referred to him as her “Dar-Precious.” Their love was the kind that grew deeper with every passing year. They built a life filled with family, laughter, travel, camping, and countless memories.

One of their favorite traditions was spending summers camping at Cowhide Cove. Mary’lin and Hansford loved spending time outdoors and, most of all, spending time with their children and grandchildren. Later in life, they enjoyed traveling to Branson and listening to pianist Dino, sharing their love of music and making memories together.

In 1978, Mary’lin and Hansford moved to Arkadelphia with their two high-school-aged children so Mary’lin could attend Henderson State University. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Education in just three years—a testament to her determination and intelligence. She returned home to Hope and began a long and meaningful career as an educator, teaching at Blevins and Springhill Elementary for many years. She was not only a dedicated educator, but also a spelling bee coach, sharing her love of learning and encouraging her students to do their very best.

Teaching was only one of Mary’lin’s many gifts. She was a tremendously talented artist who could draw nearly anything put in front of her. She especially loved drawing pictures for her grandchildren to color, creating countless little treasures that became cherished childhood memories. She was also a gifted writer and could write poetry beautifully.

And then there was music.

Mary’lin was an accomplished pianist who could hear a song one time and sit down at the piano and play it. She had a natural musical talent that amazed those around her. Music was simply something she understood, much like art and writing—it was part of who she was.

After retirement, Mary’lin treasured her time with Hansford, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She loved watching her grandchildren grow and was always ready to draw something for them, share a meal, or sit by the pond in front of their home and watch them try to reel in “the big one.” Whether the fish was actually big or simply became bigger in the retelling, those moments were precious to her.

Mary’lin was a longtime member of Unity Baptist Church in Hope, where she faithfully served her church family. She helped with Vacation Bible School and played an important role in organizing the Willows Group. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she found joy in serving others and being part of her church community.

Family was at the center of Mary’lin’s world. She loved nothing more than having her family gather together, especially around a table filled with good food. She took great joy in holidays, family get-togethers, and making sure everyone had plenty to eat. She had a way of making a gathering feel like home, and her kitchen was often the heart of it all.

She also had a wonderful sense of humor and a personality all her own. She loved Elvis, kept up with friends and family on Facebook, and never minded sharing her opinions—including her love of Donald Trump. She stayed interested in the world around her and enjoyed keeping up with the people she loved. If you knew Mary’lin, you knew she had a mind of her own—and she was not afraid to use it.

Mary’lin is preceded in death by her parents, Adeline Reece and Clarance Carson; her grandparents, Willie and Carl Reece, who lovingly raised her; her husband and the love of her life, Hansford Jerry Long; and her lifelong friend, Mary Brown.

She leaves behind a loving family who will carry her memory in their hearts: her son, Jerry Long; her daughter, Mary, and her husband, Willard Willmon; grandchildren Andrew (Casey) Long, Michele (Kenny) Perkins, Corrie Farris, Emily (David) Hamilton, and Nathalie Willmon; and many beloved great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy.

She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Henry (Marie) Long, and nephews Hank, Jr. (Michele) Long, Jerry Wayne (Leslie) Long, and Keith (Melisa) Long, along with many extended family members and friends who were blessed to know and love her.

Mary’lin lived a full and beautiful life. She was a woman of faith, talent, determination, humor, and tremendous love. She loved fiercely, gave generously, created beautifully, taught patiently, and made memories everywhere she went. She never seemed to run out of things to say, things to create, people to love, or family to feed.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dierksen Hospice for the compassion, kindness, and care they provided to Mary’lin and her family during her final days. Their support will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Unity Baptist Church in Hope, Arkansas, in Mary’lin’s memory.

Mary’lin’s earthly journey is complete, but her love, laughter, music, artwork, faith, and memories will remain with her family forever.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 9, 2026, at Brazzel-Oakcrest Funeral Home with Bro. Nick Flowers officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services. Burial will be at Memory Gardens Cemetery under the direction of Brazzel-Oakcrest Funeral Home, The Funeral Home of Hope, Ben Brazzel, Director.