Mary A. Long-Jimerson

Mary Ann Long Jimerson was born on July 18, 1946, in Geary, Oklahoma, to parents Otis and Louise Richey. She had six siblings -J.C. Johnson, Albert Brown, Clifford Richey, Darlene Berry, Eural Richey, and Donald Richey- who preceded her in death.

In 1967, Mary decided to relocate to California with her older sister Darlene, which became her permanent home. She was a devoted wife, mother, and mentor. Her life was centered around her family and the communities in which she resided. Mary was preceded in death by her first husband, Ollie Long Sr.; her second husband, Grady James Jimerson; and her grandson, Dontavius Diante-Lee McGuire.

At the very heart of Mary’s life was her unwavering faith and steadfast devotion as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. For more than 45 years, she remained faithful to Jehovah, building her life upon the unshakable foundation of His Word and promises. Her loving and nurturing spirit shone most brightly through her ministry, where she found immeasurable joy in sharing the Scriptures and helping others in her community come to know and love her Heavenly Father, Jehovah. Mary beautifully reflected the fruitage of the spirit through her kindness, compassion, patience, and genuine love for others. Even in the face of life’s challenges, her faith never wavered. Her cherished hope in the resurrection remained a source of strength, comfort, and peace throughout her life. 2 Timothy 4:7- “I have fought the final fight, I have run the course to the finish, I have observed the faith.”

While Mary, “Redbone,” or “Big Momma” was a woman of unwavering faith and deeply rooted convictions, she also possessed a joyful spirit that radiated warmth, love, and happiness to everyone blessed to know her. Mary's love and devotion to her community were profound. She loved coaching softball and baseball as well as directing cheerleaders in the community in which she resided. She was admired as a leader and mentor. Mary spent many years employed in the Aerospace industry. She retired from General Dynamics in 1993 after serving more than 30 years.

One thing Mary knew how to do was love with all her heart, give freely and have a good time. In her younger years, she was a solid gold dancer. She loved teaching everyone in sight the latest dances and had a ton of fun doing it. You can always find her singing and grooving through the home, especially on Saturday mornings.

My mother was more than a mother to her own children; she was a community mother to many. With a heart overflowing with compassion, she extended her nurturing spirit, unwavering protection, and unconditional love to all who crossed her path. She provided comfort to those in need, guidance to those seeking direction, and a safe haven for those longing to feel loved and accepted. Her home and heart were always open, and she embraced others as though they were her own. Through her kindness, wisdom, and selfless acts of love, she became a source of strength, encouragement, and inspiration to countless lives. Her love reached far beyond the walls of our home, and her beautiful legacy will forever live in the hearts of the many people she nurtured, protected, and loved.

Mary remained faithful to Jehovah until her final breath, leaving behind a beautiful legacy of faith, love, and devotion that will forever be treasured by all whose lives she touched. Mary’s legacy lives on, and she leaves to cherish in her memories her four children, Larry Arthur, Steven Long, Shawanda Long-McGuire (Calvin), and Ollie Long Jr. (Tamika). Goddaughters: Jeanine Hamilton and Cassandra Filer; Her grandchildren: Jacqueeia Long, D’Janae Long, Curtis Long, Steven Long, Jr., DaJuan Long, Javon Long, Samir Long, Sandi Long, Ronisha Gabbana Wilson, Amari McGuire, DeJon McGuire, Diamond Daniels, Kei-Moni Long, Kei-Ron Long, Natassah Long, Omoriyon Long, Sanaiya Long. Great-grandchildren. Josiah, Zaire, Zion, Nakyah, Tamari, Talaiyah. Tysen, Serayah, Malaya, Anaiyah, Elias, Genesis, Emery, Christopher. Kyson, Kaleb, Karmelo, Kna-Kai. Raushawn and KiMauri, her best friend Shirley Davis, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and other loved ones.