Kathleen Lewis Long died peacefully on February 15, 2021 at Beehive Homes in Helena, Montana at age 98. She was born in Corvallis, Oregon on February 13, 1923 to parents Wade V. Lewis and Jessie Thayer Lewis. Her father was a geologist and mining engineer who explored for mineral resources throughout the western United States. As a result, Kathleen’s family was frequently on the move, but resided in Helena, Manhattan, Deer Lodge, Butte, and Missoula at various times during her childhood. Kathleen met William A. Long while attending Washington State College in Pullman. In January 1943, they were married in Spokane, Washington. She is survived by her children: Diana (Russell), David (Kathryn), Daniel (Christine), and Richard; grandchildren Will (Michelle) and Maggie; sisters Mary Lewis and Susan Parker, also, many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Kathleen had a career working as an office secretary for various state government agencies and private firms in Washington/California. She enjoyed exploring the Pacific Northwest mountains with her husband and assisting in his geological field work. She was active on the Altar Guild of St. Peters Episcopal Church in Helena and St. James Episcopal Church in Cashmere, Washington. A memorial service and reception to be held at a later date at St. Peters Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, you may wish to donate to St. Peters Altar Guild or a charity of your choice.
Service Schedule
Service Schedule
Reader Interactions
Memories
Read the thoughts and memories, then feel free to add your own.
Marlene Campbell says
Kathleen was very dear to me. I have many fond memories of times spent with her. It was a pleasure working with her in the church Altar Guild. She loved her Lord and always performed her Altar Guild duties with a happy heart. Kathleen was a wonderful role model for the rest of us. I will always hold this very special lady in my heart. May she rest in peace.
Marlene Campbell
AMY BUDKE says
Kathleen was such a remarkable woman! I met her as an elderly neighbor and she was such a gem to know. We enjoyed gardening, canning apple butter, and sharing many hugs and cups of tea. What a sprite and strong woman. I send love to her dear family, Chris, Dan and kids, David and Kathy.
Darien G Scott says
Kathleen enjoyed helping with the receptions at St. Peter’s and was always willing to make cookies for any event that needed them. She always had a smile and was ready to do anything asked of her. She has been greatly missed. She enjoyed being with people.
Darien Scott
Janelle Fallan says
Kathleen was just a doll! She was a dear friend to my mother, Jean Barrett, in my mother’s later years. Her friendship, kindness and homemade bread meant a lot to Mom.
Janelle Fallan
Jackie R. Thayer says
I wish I had known Kathleen earlier in my life. We both had a parent who was a Thayer and that was my connection with her, long-distance though it was. For the last 30 years or so Kathleen and I would see each other occasionally when she made visits to see Thayer relatives in Oregon and I happened to be there also. Once we had met and wanted to stay in touch, we corresponded, and her letters were charming. She was the kind of woman who radiated kindness and refinement. Thank you, cousin, for having been here.