Virginia Long
Alton | Save
In Loving Memory of Virginia M. (Hans) Long
May 15, 1950 - July 24, 2025
At the age of 75, Virginia (Ginny) Long left our earthly world - but not before leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and generosity.
Her faith was unassuming and strong, much like she was, and her testimony rang loudest through her actions. With that faithful spirit, Ginny welcomed everyone to her table - whether for “Christmas Adam” brunches, home-cooked feasts, heartfelt conversations, or a competitive game of cards.
A lifelong listener and trusted confidant, Ginny likely held more secrets than the CIA. Friends and family turned to her for wisdom, warmth, and honest perspective. If you knew her for decades or just dropped by once, you likely left feeling a little more seen, a little more loved, and smiling from her quick wit.
Her life’s work revealed even more about her character: she had the patience of a skilled speech therapist, the heart of a second-grade teacher, the discernment of a fair-minded arbitrator, and the creative vision of an artist. These qualities not only shaped her career but also touched the lives of countless individuals she served along the way.
Her generosity was boundless, her friendship a blessing from God, and her love for her family fierce and unconditional.
In eternal life, she joins those who preceded her - including her parents, Carlan and Ann Hans; her former husband, Tom; and her brother, John. Her legacy lives on in her two devoted daughters, Margaret (Long) Kohl and Erin (Long) Mays; their loving husbands, Mike and Joe; and six beautiful grandchildren: Charlotte, Barrett, Louis, Marion, Elsie, and John - all residing on a family farm in Godfrey. Her life is also celebrated by six loving siblings and their families, and a seemingly endless circle of friends.
Visitation will be on Friday, August 8, 2025 from 4:00pm to 7:00 pm at Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Homes - Godfrey, Illinois.
Funeral mass will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 11:00 am at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Godfrey, IL with Father Steve Pohlman, officiating.
Burial will take place at St. Patrick's Cemetery in Godfrey, IL.
In lieu of flowers: play a game with someone you love, confide in a friend, make a meal from scratch. And most of all, set an extra place at your table - just the way Ginny always did.
Memorials may be made to the Virginia M. Long Foundation. Since 1999, her foundation has supported artistic, literary, scientific, and educational initiatives that enrich our local communities.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
