Mrs. Arrie Joan Richardson Long transitioned to her new life on December 15, 2024. She was born in Forsyth County on June 11, 1947 to Furney Richardson, Sr. and Lillian Cole Richardson. She was preceded in death by both of her parents; her husband, Preston Long of Yonkers, NY; one brother, Furney Richardson, Jr.; her sisters: Shirley Hayes, Mary Richardson and Julia Richardson. She attended the public schools of Forsyth County for all her education.

Mrs. Long, affectionately known as Joan, was a resident of Winston for the entirety of her life. She worked for ARA Food service through RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company for approximately 20 years.

Joan was a member of Second Calvary Baptist Church where she served on the choir. After retirement, she became a member of Ministries of Truth, currently known as The Shifting Place. Joan was also a Mother of the church until her death.

Joan is survived by her devoted daughter, Valarie Brooks (Michael) of Winston-Salem and beloved honorary sister, Beverly Clark, of Yonkers, NY.

She leaves to cherish her memories, her aunts: Ann. C. Galloway, Emma Ingram, Ruby Griffin, all of Winston-Salem and Barbara Surratt of Shelby, NC. She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Joan enjoyed life and loved her family dearly. She was a joy to all who encountered her. She will be missed tremendously

Her life will be celebrated 12:00 P.M on Monday, December 23, 2024 at The Shifting Place with family visitation at 11:30 A.M. prior to the service. Entombment will follow at Parklawn Memorial Gardens.