Thelma "Ginger" L. Long

Thelma Loraine Long, whom many know as Ginger, 88, of Dennison, Ohio, passed away at her home on Monday, July 21, 2025, in the care of Traditions Hospice and her loving family. Born May 7, 1937 in Uhrichsville, Ohio, she was the last surviving child of the late Joseph Robert and Nellie Elizabeth (Murray) Byrd – having been preceded in death by her siblings, Gerald Byrd, Carolyn Brower, Joy Covill, and Joseph R. Byrd, Jr.

Ginger made the Twin City area her home throughout her life, growing up in Uhrichsville where she was a 1955 graduate of Uhrichsville High School. She had been a member of the former Grant Street United Methodist Church, and had most recently attended Park Christian Church in Dennison. She spent nearly 40 years working in the newspaper industry, first at the Evening Chronicle in Uhrichsville and then continuing at the Times Reporter until her retirement. Ginger was also a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and homemaker who truly loved caring for her family and home. In her spare time, she enjoyed working crossword puzzles.

On April 7, 1957, Ginger married James Howard Long with whom she shared 63 years of loving marriage until his passing on June 27, 2020. They were blessed with two sons, Brett (Valerie) Long and Jeff Long; five grandchildren, Shane, Evan (Hannah), Austin, Keenan, and Lauren Long; and two great-granddaughters, Charlotte and Violet Long with a third great-grandchild expected. Many nieces and nephews complete her surviving family.

According to Ginger’s wishes, cremation is planned without a public visitation. Her family will celebrate her life privately on a future date. Charitable contributions honoring her memory may be made to Traditions Hospice, 238 Front Avenue S.W., New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663, in lieu of flowers.