Velma Louise Long

Velma Louise Long, 87, of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, passed away late Saturday night, May 6, 2023, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

Velma was born December 10, 1935, in Norman, Oklahoma to James R. Smith and Anna B. (O’Dell) Smith.  She grew up in Norman, OK and received her education from Norman High School.  After graduating, Velma met and married the love of her life, LaMont “L.D.” Long on March 5, 1954, in Norman.  The couple resided in Norman until L.D. entered the U.S. Air Force.  After L.D.’s military career, the Longs moved to Moore, Oklahoma.  In 1973, the Long family moved to Bartlesville and her husband established C&M Auto Body Repair in 1975.  Mr. Long preceded his wife in death on March 17, 1997.

Velma was a nurse in her younger years and after her children were born, embraced being a mom and homemaker.  She was a Blue Bird and Campfire Girls’ leader, homeroom mom and team mom.  In her later years, after her children left the home, she held managers positions at 7-11, Pure Gold and Braum’s.  She was a member of the Pentecostal Tabernacle Church in Bartlesville, OK.  Velma enjoyed spending time with her family.  They were her pride and joy.  Everyone who entered her home was welcomed and often given a sweet treat. 

Survivors include her children, Lamonda Lynne Aubrey and her husband, Charles of Bartlesville and Gary Long and his wife Julie, also of Bartlesville; sister Barbara Burns of Norman, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Andrea Bastings and her husband Jeff, Roy Morgan, Kyle Long and wife Beth, Brian Long and wife Renee & Steven Long; great-grandchildren; Connor, Klayton, Kambria & Carter Bastings. 

She was preceded in death by her parents James & Anna Smith; by her husband, L.D.; their daughter, Larna, her brothers Willie Smith and JC Smith and a great granddaugher, Cordelia Poppy Star Long.

Memorial services will be held 10 a.m., Saturday, May 20, 2023, at the graveside in Ochelata Cemetery with Charles Aubrey officiating.  Services and interment have been entrusted to Arnold Moore & Neekamp Funeral & Cremation Service.  Those who wish may stop by the funeral home to sign the register book and pay respects, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., each weekday until services.  To send an online condolence, visit www.honoringmemories/bartlesville.com.