Billie Jean Morehead Long, age 87, joined her beloved husband Bill, on December 19, 2020. She was born April 22, 1933 in Montgomery County, Mississippi to TJ and Robbie Morehead. She eloped with, “that handsome Bill Long, the wittiest man I ever knew,” in July of 1952. The couple became affectionately known as “Mimi and Pappy” at the birth of their first grandchild, Jason, in 1976. They were inseparable until 2015 when he preceded her in death.
Although Mimi battled dementia for many years, she never forgot her “Pappy” nor her family. Every conversation would include, “Do you know what he called me?” She would giggle and proclaim, “Mouth of the South!” It was a banner she wore with pride -- she loved to talk and she never met a stranger. Her frustration with dementia was always offset with, “Our family has been blessed beyond belief,” and, “Well, I’ve always been light headed and light hearted!”
Mimi was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister and friend. She is survived by her sister Helen Morehead Trigg; her children Tom Long and his wife Colleen and Tena Long Golding and her husband Bill Malnar; grandchildren Jason Long (Liz), Josh Golding, Robin Long, Pete Golding (Carolyn), and Jenna Parker (Josh); great-grandchildren Livi, Braxton, Leila, Avery, Bentley, Millie, Wes, Bailey and Griffin; many nieces, nephews, cousins; special family friends; and her dog, “Butchie.”
Mimi had a wonderful life. Although we are not able to gather together in celebration of her life, we ask that you take a moment to celebrate Mimi through a special memory that makes you laugh. She loved to laugh – and she had a laugh like no other. Today, Mimi is happier than she has ever been and her laughter is ringing through Heaven.
You have turned my mourning into dancing; You have taken off my sackcloth and clothed me with joy.” — Psalm 30:11
Any memorials should be sent to her favorite charity the Shriners Children’s Hospital.