Illa Jeffreys Lang Long, age 85, passed away surrounded by her family on December 23, 2019. She was born in Lawrence County to Volin and Sallie Jeffreys. In 1953, she married Vernon Lang, a marriage that lasted 40 years until his death in 1993. They owned and operated Lang's Sporting Goods for many years. Illa will always be fondly remembered for Pam’s Gift Tree in Decatur that she owned along with her daughter, Pam Shepard. In 2000, Illa married Leo Long, who survives her as her husband.
Illa's character and life impacted all those she encountered. Known as diligent and hard working, she was a loyal , exemplary friend to so many. Having a true Christian servant's heart, Illa helped others in any way she could. She and Vernon were founding members of Westmeade Baptist Church in Decatur. She was currently a member of Andrew Jackson Way Baptist Church in Huntsville, where she was a dedicated volunteer at their Food Pantry to feed the homeless. When asked how she would like to spend her last efforts, Illa wanted to be an example of Christian faith that would lead others to Christ.
Illa was preceded in death by her parents and first husband, and she was the last surviving of eight siblings. Her gentle presence in her family will be deeply missed. She had two children, Pam Shepard (Taze) and Nolan Lang (Marla). Her stepchildren are Nancy Whitehurst (Dick) and Peggy Russell (Mark). Her grandchildren who will miss "Mona" are Riley Jacobs (Sarah), Jana Broughton (Thomas), David Austin Lang (Heather), Jordan Lang, Tazewell Shepard IV (Sarah), John Shepard and Hunt Shepard. Illa was very involved with her great -grandchildren, and in total she had 20.
Her family would welcome friends to celebrate and honor Illa's life by joining them on Friday, December 27, 2019 for visitation at 12:30-2:00 P.M. and services beginning at 2:00 P.M. at Roselawn Chapel, Decatur, Alabama. Pallbearers will be her grandsons and nephews. The service will be conducted by Reverend Steve Flippo and Reverend David McKelvey. In lieu of flowers, contributions would be welcomed at the Andrew Jackson Way Baptist Church Food Pantry, 1001 Andrew Jackson Way, NE, Huntsville, Alabama 35801.
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