Velna Janet Long

Mrs. Velna "Janet" Koontz Long passed away peacefully at her home on November 24, 2023.

She was born on April 12, 1945, in Lexington, NC to Daniel Wade Koontz and Minnie Doris Koontz; a devoted and only child, she was preceded in death by both.

She leaves behind a loving husband, Ronnie Olin Long, who has been an exceptional caregiver in recent times. They were married on August 13, 1966, and enjoyed 57 years of raising a beautiful family together. While Ronnie served in the Air Force, they lived in New Mexico and Germany. Janet graduated from UNC Greensboro in 1971 with a degree in Education.

Janet was a strong woman both physically and spiritually. The backbone of her family, she was quick to serve wherever she saw a need; a hard worker, never afraid of a challenge or trying something new. Janet would light up when speaking of her children and grandchildren and was immensely proud of each one. In addition to her husband Ron of the home, she leaves behind a son, Mark Long (Christy) of Winston-Salem, a daughter, Alyson Roy (Jeff) of Summerfield, and six grandchildren, Parker, Conner, and Drew Roy, Bryson Long, Jackson Palmer, and Madison Carroll (Nolan); sister-in-law, Phyllis Long, and nephews, Jeffrey Long (Michele) and David Long (Marie); she was preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Jerry Long, father-in-law, Olin Webster Long and mother-in-law, Pauline Eddinger Long.

Janet retired from Davidson County Schools in 2005, after teaching children in her community for over 34 years, including Pilot Elementary School, Ledford Middle School, and Midway Elementary School. She continued to substitute teach even after retirement, until her career as “Nana” began to keep her busy. She attended countless athletic events throughout the years, especially baseball games. She was also a frequent spectator at Horsepower Therapeutic Learning where she enjoyed watching her grandson, Parker, ride his horse. Supporting her family was always her top priority.

She was a member of Bethany United Church of Christ where she sang in the choir for many years and used her expert, bargain-shopping skills to purchase and wrap an abundance of gifts for children and their adopted families at Christmas. She was a talented basket weaver, blessing many friends over the years as she decorated their homes with her craft. Janet was quick-witted, a sharp dresser, a faithful wife and selfless mother; a loyal, generous, and thoughtful friend. She lived her life honoring her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, by putting others above herself. Her family and friends will miss her greatly, but take comfort in the assurance of God’s promise of being reunited in His eternal home.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, December 10th, at 1:00 pm at Davidson Funeral Home, 858 Hickory Tree Road, Winston-Salem, NC, 27127 prior to a celebration of life at 2:00 pm in the Chapel. A private graveside service will follow at Bethany United Church of Christ, 1066 Bethany Church Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27107.

The family would like to acknowledge special caregiver Barbara Smith, to whom they are extremely grateful for the outstanding care she provided in these last weeks. Additionally, the family would like to thank Hospice of the Piedmont, and specifically Nurse Erin Grant for the extraordinary and professional care given in recent days.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hospice of the Piedmont, 1801 Westchester Dr, High Point, NC 27262, or Horsepower Therapeutic Learning, 4537 Walpole Rd, High Point, NC 27265 in care of Parker Roy.

The staff at Davidson Funeral Home Hickory Tree Chapel is honored to be serving the Long family during this difficult time.

Online condolences may be made at www.davidsonfuneralhome.net