Ella Ruth Long

Ella Ruth Long, age 83, passed peacefully on November 14th at the Hospice House of Southern Kentucky in Bowling Green. A beloved Mom, Mawmaw, Sister, and Auntie, Ruth lived a life defined by love, generosity, and quiet strength. Born March 22, 1942, to the late Howard Lee and Coretta Lee Givens, Ruth grew up in the Fairvue community of Wayne County, surrounded by the warmth of a close-knit family. She graduated from Collinwood High School with the Class of 1960. That same year, she married James Long—her husband of 50 years—who preceded her in death. Together, they built their home, their work, and their life in the community they both loved. 

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Delicia, and son-in-law, Harry Parish; her granddaughters Ashley Fleming (Phillip) and Laura Parish (Devin); and her cherished great-grandson, Waylon. She is also survived by sisters, Pat Maples and Reva Woods; her brothers, Kenneth Lee, Doug Lee, and Jeff Lee; and her beloved niece Chasity Tiller (Matt and family), along with many other nieces, nephews, in-laws, and dear friends. 

She was preceded in death by her brothers Marty Lee and Robert Lee. 

Ruth found great joy in the outdoors and had a true gift for growing things—whether tending her flower gardens, nurturing houseplants, or sharing her passion through her herbal business. She loved traveling, discovering new places, and creating special memories along the way. Her Eastview Baptist Church family held a special place in her heart, and she rarely missed a Sunday. Her two faithful dogs, Peanut and Jackie, brought her daily comfort and companionship. 

Services will be held Tuesday, November 18th, at Shackelford Funeral Home in Waynesboro, Tennessee. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. Burial will immediately follow at Railroad Cemetery in Iron City, Tennessee. Ella Ruth Long leaves behind a legacy of a life beautifully and lovingly lived. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. 

“Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord will be praised. Give her the reward of her labor, and let her works praise her at the city gates.” — Proverbs 31:30–31