Our mother, Gatha Mae Long Smith, died October 4, 2026 and is now in Heaven with our loved ones. She will be missed by many.

She was born on July 15, 1949 to Dee and Ruth Long. Our mother was a strong woman, survivor of five cancers and other medical issues and she was the strongest woman we have ever seen.

Survivors include her brother, Ted Long; her son, Russell E. Brown, Jr.and wife Heidi Brown; daughter, Kristal D. Brown; grandchildren, Chris Brown, Ehron Erickson, Kyle Brown, and  Cory Thomas; great grandchildren, Elliot, Emma, and Ilsa; companion, William Higginbotham; many nieces and nephews.

Rest in Peace Mom