Gladys Edna Long Lunsford

Henry-Cochran Funeral Home of Blue Ridge announces Funeral Services for Mrs. Gladys Edna Long Lunsford, age 86, of Suches, Georgia, who passed away on Saturday, January 16th, 2021.

Gladys was born on November 22, 1934 and raised in Morganton, Georgia. Her early adult years were spent in Detroit as her first husband, Alvin Long and her brother, Frank worked there. She managed their funds and household as the men earned a living. Later, they began to work in the mines of California, Virginia, and Cuba, and she traveled with them. At the age of 35, Gladys became a widow, having to support her two young children on her own. With grit and determination, she went to vocational school, obtained a cosmetology license, and opened her own shop. She believed that you can have anything you want- if you are willing to work for it. She found love again and married Calvin Lunsford at the age of 60. They spent their "Golden Years" together until his death on Thursday, January 7th, 2021.

Gladys embraced her title as "Nana" and was so proud of her grandchildren and their accomplishments. She devoted her time in giving them wonderful experiences and memories to remember. She was always willing to do whatever activity the kids wanted, whether it be fishing or four-wheelers. Her home smelled of biscuits and cornbread, a pinch of this or dash of that- all made with love and no recipe needed. Her heart was full when her home was too, as she hosted many family dinners and holiday gatherings. Nana always made time to listen, eat blue-berries, and talk. Her laughter filled the room as many things just struck her funny. She would get so tickled, especially if she thought she had something on you. She enjoyed stringed instrument music and would often dance, her favorite being the Charleston. She had the heart of a servant and valued community. She deeply enjoyed helping the elderly and simply being good to people.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory: daughter, Vickie Hemphill; daughter and son-in-law, Debra and Ricky Greene; Grandchildren: Megan Welshhans (Joshua), Chase Hemphill (Jennifer) , and Jeremiah Greene (Sherry); great grandchildren: Lexington Grace, Sutton Marie, and Finn Michael; a brother, Frank Tipton. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive. Mrs. Lunsford was preceded in death by her husband of 36 years, Calvin Lunsford; her first husband, Alvin Roy Long; her parents, Homer Tipton and Lydia Ball Tipton; sisters and brothers: Joyce A. Beasley, Callie Cox, Charles Tipton, Dewey Tipton, John Tipton, W.H. Tipton, Mamie Lackey, Myrtle Ross, Margie Key, Avis Fuller, and William Edgar Tipton.

Funeral services have been scheduled for Tuesday, January 19th, 2021 at 2:00 p.m., to be held in the Chapel of Henry-Cochran Funeral Home in Blue Ridge with Rev. Wade Plott and Rev. Steve Rhoten officiating.

Burial will be in Concord Baptist Church Cemetery. The following gentlemen will serve as pallbearers: Chase Hemphill, Josh Welshhans, Dennis Garrett, Tommy Husky, Jesse Tipton, and Jeremiah Greene. Honorary escort to the family include: Kenny Dehart, Ricky Greene, Rex Hemphill, Rusty Whittenbarger, and Stanley Garrett.

Visitation will be held at Henry-Cochran Funeral Home on Monday, January 18th, 2021 between the hours of 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Henry-Cochran Funeral Home of Blue Ridge. Please share your condolences and sign the online guest registry at www.cochranfuneralhomes.com.