Catherine Louise Long, 96, of Raleigh Court Health Care, Roanoke, died Wednesday, December 10, 2008 at Lewis Gale Medical Center in Salem.

Born June 8, 1912 in Clifton Forge, Miss Long was a loving, caring daughter of Clarence L. and Emma McKenney Long.

A former resident of 905 McCormick Blvd., Clifton Forge, Louise had previously been a resident of the Ridgeway Street Apartments for fourteen years. She was a life long member of the Clifton Forge Presbyterian Church. Miss Long retired in 1972 after thirty-six years with the Chesapeake and Ohio Hospital Association as office manager. She was a member of the Clifton Forge WomenÕs Club and the Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center.

In her younger years, Louise played the piano beautifully, took part in tennis tournaments, and loved to swim and ice skate. In recent years, she loved to root for the Atlanta Braves. Louise had many friends who were such a blessing to her in so many ways. She loved her church, her family, and her many friends, and was loved by all who knew her.

As well as her parents, Louise was predeceased by her brothers, C. Richard Long and F. L. (Buddy) Long, and a sister, Mrs. Paul J. (Eva) Puckett.

She is survived by a sister, Mrs. John B. (Emilie) Purdy, of Roanoke; five nieces: and a nephew.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 12, 2008 at 3:00 PM in the chapel of Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge with Reverend Paul Brokaw officiating. Interment will follow in Mountain View Cemetery, Clifton Forge. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at Nicely Funeral Home.