Cathy S. Long

If you had the privilege of knowing Cathy Sue Long, then you knew a woman full of faith, love, laughter, wisdom, and rhythm. She could dance a baby to sleep, talk you through your problems for hours, and still have the energy to pack up an RV and hit the road for Mardi Gras—because Cathy knew how to live life to the fullest.

Born on January 3, 1953, to Elmer McNary and Ora Jones, at 6 months old she gained a bonus father Otis Jones. Cathy grew up on the South Side of Chicago, attending James Madison School, Chicago Vocational School (CVS), and Olive Harvey College. But school couldn’t teach what Cathy already knew—how to care deeply, love fiercely, and always say exactly what needed to be said (whether you were ready to hear it or not). She became a legal secretary and spent many years working in a profession that she loved. She was baptized at first house of Prayer and was a woman of extreme faith.

Cathy was a woman of many talents. She loved to read and work puzzles, and if you ever needed a word spelled or a definition explained, you didn’t need Google—you had Cathy. She was a walking dictionary, quick-witted and always a step ahead. Her love for knowledge was matched only by her love for people. Even though she never went to school for counseling, Cathy was a therapist in her own right, spending hours on the phone, helping people through their toughest moments, offering advice, and reminding them they were never alone.

But Cathy’s true joy was in dancing. She would pick up the kids and twirl them in front of the mirror, spinning them to sleep as music filled the room. If Luther Vandross was playing, you already knew—Cathy was somewhere swaying, smiling, and completely in her element.

She was the life of the party, the heart of her family, and a friend to so many. If someone needed a helping hand, a place to stay, or just a warm, comforting presence, Cathy was there—without hesitation, without question. She was so deeply loved because she gave love so freely.

Though she had a beautiful daughter and many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, she was “Auntie Cathy” to everyone. Her warmth, wisdom, and humor made her family far bigger than just blood—she touched the lives of countless people who will forever cherish her presence.

Cathy was welcomed into heaven by her parents, Elmer McNary, Otis and Ora Jones, her sisters Gwendolyn Brooks and Renee Jones, and her nephew Christopher Jones Sr. No doubt, they were waiting with open arms—and maybe even a dance floor ready.

She leaves behind loved ones that will carry her love and laughter forward Daughter: Christianna Jones, Sisters: Janet McNary and Twona Hill, Nieces and Nephews: Jennifer Jones, Brandon Johnson, Ericka Larrieu, Keeuna Jones, Derek Dean, Matthew Jones, Tiana Hill, Osie Dean, and Kenya Williams, Great Nieces and Nephews: David Scott, Joshua Jones, Nicole Jones, Myles Dean, Christopher Jones Jr., Caleb Jones, Ethan Jones, MaKayla Jones, Mykah Jones, Mattianna Jones, Serenity Jones, Mattalisa Jones, Maddox Jones, and Desire Hill and a slew of family and friends.

Cathy Sue Long lived with passion, loved without limits, and danced through life with a heart full of joy. Though she is no longer here in body, her spirit, wisdom, and laughter will forever echo in the hearts of those who love her.

Rest peacefully, Cathy. Keep dancing. Keep shining. You will always be cherished.