Mary Jane Long, 86, Massena

MASSENA – Mary Jane Long, 86, of Andrews Street and longtime resident of North Main Street, peacefully passed away Monday morning, September 16, 2024 at her home, where she was under the loving care of her family.

Mary Jane was born March 29, 1938 in Potsdam, the daughter of the late Harold and C. Evelyn (Hill) Manning.

She attended Massena schools, from which she graduated in 1956. On January 31, 1959, she married John Long at the Church of the Sacred Heart. John predeceased her on January 6, 1983.

Mary Jane first worked as a bookkeeper for Northern NY Trust in Massena before embarking on a long and dedicated career at the Highland Nursing Home.

Starting as a nurse's aide, she later became a PT/OT aide, retiring after over 40 years of service. She also worked at JCPenney for over 20 years.

Her passion for community involvement was evident through her roles as the secretary of the Massena Figure Skating Club and co-manager of the Northern Lights Precision Skating Team. Additionally, Mary Jane was an active member of the Friends of Massena Library and TOPS, served as a Girl Scout leader, and was known for her love of reading, gardening, and cooking.

She cherished spending time at her camp on the Ruddy Road and was the strongest supporter at all her grandchildren’s activities.
Mary Jane is survived by her daughters, Sandra Riley of Malone, Sue and Carl Hoitt of San Antonio, Texas, Shari Gilman of Massena, and Kat and Doug Lavigne of Norfolk. Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren, Danielle (Jay) Malette, Charles Hoitt, Amy (Layden) Stone, Colleen and Josh Cromp, John Riley (Kara Hanna), Dr. Falisha Gilman (Dave Muscle), Katelyn Hoitt, Sarah Lavigne (Joe Capuano), and Erica Lavigne; and 10 great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her brothers, Thomas Manning of Lisbon, and James Manning of Massena, along with many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and her husband, she was predeceased by her brother, John Manning, and her best friend, Donna Rupert.

Mary Jane touched the lives of many through her caring nature and unwavering love. She will be fondly remembered for her dedication to her family, her patients at the Highland Nursing Home, and her community.

Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Friends may call on Wednesday 1 to 3:00 p.m. and 6 to 8:00 p.m. at the Donaldson Funeral Home, Massena, where services will be held Thursday at 9:30 a.m. with Rev. Judy VanKennan officiating. Burial will be held privately in Calvary Cemetery, Massena.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, an organization that provided unwavering support to Mary Jane and her family, as well as Feed our Vets (1291 Faichney Drive, Watertown, NY 13601), an organization close to Mary Jane’s heart that offers free food assistance to Veterans and their families.

Friends are encouraged to share memories and offer condolences online at www.donaldsonfh.com.