Carla Weaver Long

Following a lengthy illness, Carla Weaver Long died at her home in Red Springs on March 27. She is preceded in death by her father, D. C. Weaver of Tyler. She is survived by her husband, Steven Long of Red Springs; a daughter, Angela Brewer Hawkins; a son-in-law, Bradley Hawkins of Tyler; daughters Lesle Brewer and Dayze Long of Red Springs; mother, Juanita Weaver of Tyler; a sister, the Rev. Lynda Weaver-Williams; and brother-in-law, the Rev. Sammy Williams, of Richmond, Virginia. Mrs. Long spent six years teaching in various capacities in the Winona Independent School District, although she invested much more than time in her work with the children of the community. She was a second mother to many of her children's friends and a nurturing presence to the children in her classes. She supported the music and sports programs of the schools, as well as always being an encourager of other teachers. A long time member of the Red Springs Baptist Church, Mrs. Long lent her wonderful voice to the music program of the church. She worked with various children's programs there and was always a supporter of her church community. Mrs. Long was educated in the Tyler Public Schools, graduating from John Tyler High School in 1971. She trained as a licensed Practical Nurse at East Texas School of Nursing, received an associate's degree at Tyler Junior College, and also studied at the University of Texas in Austin. Besides being an exceptional mother, she is remembered by her family as an advocate for children, especially those who needed special attention, a rescuer of stray animals, and a compassionate presence in her church and community. In these last months as she struggled with her disease, she refused to let cancer define her life. She lived courageously and joyously to the end of her days. The family will receive visitors at Caudle-Rutledge Funeral Home in Lindale from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Monday, March 29th. A memorial service will be held at the funeral home chapel on Tuesday, March 30 at 2:00 P.M. A reception for family and friends will follow at 4:00 P.M. at the Red Springs Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Carla Weaver Long Scholarship Fund through Linda Wilkerson, Business Manager, Winona Independent School District, P.O. Box 218, Winona, TX 75792.

Carla Weaver Long

November 6, 1952 - March 27, 2004