SANDRA LONG

March 9, 1997 – January 14, 2025

Quote: Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.

Sandra Long, 27, departed this world on Tuesday, January 14,2025, at home surrounded by her loving family and friends. An angel in life, she gained her heavenly wings after a long, courageous battle against a tough illness, fought with an indomitable spirit.

Sandra, a bright light and a joy to all who knew her, leaves behind her mother, Brandy Bartel-Long, two  brothers, Cory Long (Deborah) and  Julian Miner (Katie); three sisters, Daysha Campbell, Zariah Betts and Iyana Betts (Tom Cotton, her maternal grandparents Larry and Sandy Bartel, paternal grandmother Sandra Long Gray, her maternal great-grandmother Janie Ackers, plus five nieces and nephews for whom she was a caring mentor, babysitter and friend.

She also leaves four aunts and uncles, Chuck and Joy Bartel, and Chrissy and Michael Crosten; seven cousins, and six great aunts and uncles who will miss her immensely.

Sandra will be remembered for being the ideal “big sister”, always ready to listen, understand and guide; the daughter and granddaughter that was always there to help. Her gentle ways, cheerfulness, infectious smile and sense of humor touched many lives beyond her family and circle of close friends. Her sphere of influence extended to more than 1,500 online friends —and yes, she knew and interacted with them all offline—plus members of multiple sports teams she met during tournaments. On or off the field, Sandra never met anyone who did not quickly become a friend.

As an excellent athlete with a natural coaching ability, she was an inspiration and motivational force for her own Softball team, the Twisted Teas, as well as a positive role model for affiliated league members. She attended and participated in competitive games throughout her illness with grace and a winning attitude.

She enjoyed music, taking selfies, sports (especially softball), funny movies and laughing, especially with her sisters and brothers. Most of all, she valued spending quality time with her large, active family and with her adoring dog Diablo.

For many years, Sandra worked as a Physical Therapist Assistant with Virginia Beach Public Schools. She attended Tidewater Community College and was a 2015 graduate of Floyd Kellam High School.

Sandra was predeceased by her father Cory Long Sr., her loving great aunts Lois Bartel and Pat Dozier, and her paternal great grandmother, Bertha Bartel.

Details for a Celebration of Life are pending and will be announced.