Debra Ann Long passed to our Savior on Tuesday afternoon, May 1, 2018. She was a beacon to her friends and family, guiding them in both the darkest and brightest of times. She was their greatest champion and protector with her indomitable spirit and will. Debbie lived each moment for her family and was their biggest advocate. Today is much darker without her.
Debbie was the oldest child of Marcus and Bertha Gonzales. She was born and raised in Pearland, Texas where she graduated from Pearland High School. After moving to Harlingen, Texas, she met Brooks Long, the love of her life for over 33 years. She and Brooks were married in Harlingen and had two sons, Joshua and Jordan, who with her granddaughter Elizabeth, all survive her. Today is a challenge, but they will go on, armed with the spirit and lessons she instilled in them.
Debbie was known for her strong work ethic, loving nature and magnetic smile, which often included a special dose of "spice.” Her sense of humor, love of family, fashion, friends and sports will always be remembered. The best of times spent with family and friends on Lake Amistad and Lake Livingston were very special to her.
Debbie lived for many years in Harlingen, Weslaco and Eagle Pass before settling in Ozona, Texas with her family. She was a leader of the community in Ozona and served as the Ozona Booster Club Treasurer for many years. Debbie retired from her job at Crockett National Bank in Ozona where she was the Vice President/Loan Officer.
Debbie and Brooks eventually moved to Houston to be closer to her family and to continue her courageous battle against breast cancer.
In addition to her husband, sons and granddaughter, Debbie is also survived by her sisters, Lisa Heim and Janet Banfield, and her brothers, Gilbert Gonzales and Marcus Gonzales. She will be remembered and forever loved by her many friends, family and pets, Claire and Deets Long.
The family will receive friends on Friday, May 4, 2018 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 13001 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77079. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 5, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. in the Chapel of Memorial Oaks Funeral Home. A reception will follow in the Event Center of Memorial Oaks.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to both the staff of Houston Hospice, and the doctors and staff of MD Anderson Cancer Center.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to MD Anderson Cancer Center at mdanderson.org.
