Anna Lee Marie Delong

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Anna Lee Marie Delong, a beloved matriarch, devoted wife, and cherished mother, who left this world on October 23, 2024, in Little Rock, Arkansas at the age of 92. Born on July 28, 1932, in Morrilton, Arkansas, Ann lived a life rich with love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to her family and her faith. 

For 59 years, Anna passionately embraced her role as a homemaker, nurturing her family with the same dedication she showed in her work at JC Penny, where she served for many years. Her kitchen was a sacred space, where the delicious aromas of her cooking mingled with the laughter of her loved ones. A fantastic cook, she enjoyed canning and creating new recipes, and her family will forever cherish the memories of meals shared around the dinner table. A proud “Junktiquer,” Anna found joy in spending hours exploring flea markets, always in search of a hidden treasure or a unique piece to bring home and share with her family. 

Education was important to Anna, who attended Nemo Vista School. However, her true education came through her experiences as a loving wife and mother. Anna’s heart was full, and her spirit was vibrant; she was always a source of joy, warmth, and encouragement to those around her. Her deep love for her family was evident in everything she did. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought an incredible light to her life. 

Anna was a devoted Christian of the Baptist faith, and her relationship with Jesus was a cornerstone of her existence. She was a guiding light for her family, instilling in them the values of kindness, compassion, and love for one another. Her faith offered her comfort and strength throughout her life, and she willingly shared that gift with all who surrounded her. 

 Anna will be deeply missed by her son, Don Delong; her granddaughters: Pam Haynes, and Heather Martin (Mikey); her grandsons: Jason Delong, Mark Delong, and Liam Delong; and her great-granddaughters, Blakely Haynes, Kalleigh Martin, and Kymber Martin. Her legacy will live on in each of them as they carry forward the values she embodied. 

 She was preceded in death by her husband, Obie Delong; her parents, Claud and Pearlene Ledbetter; her siblings, Charles, Julie, Ray and Stan Ledbetter; and her great-grandson, Cody Simmons. She joins them now, surrounded by the love that she cherished during her time on earth. 

 Family and friends are invited to commemorate Anna's remarkable life during the visitation on October 28, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Smith Family Funeral Home in North Little Rock, AR. A funeral service will follow on October 29, 2024, at 10:00 AM, also at Smith Family Funeral Home. Anna will be laid to rest at Wilder Cemetery in Plumerville, AR, following the burial service at 12:00 PM. 

 In this time of sorrow, let us celebrate a life well-lived and a heart that knew no bounds. Anna Lee Marie Delong leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and cherished memories that will forever resonate in the hearts of her family and friends. 

Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St., North Little Rock, 72114.  501-758-1170.