After 60 years of marriage, Gloria & Norm are once again together, after an ever-so-brief time apart.

Gloria Mae Long (née Ferguson) was a farm girl from Kimberley, who made her way from the Beaver Valley to Owen Sound. She spent over a quarter century as a switchboard operator with Bell Canada, even serving as the intercept voice for recordings such as “please hang up and try your call again”. Nanny / Grandma was a multi-faceted wonder woman, beloved as a wife, mother, daughter, daughter-in-law, and home maker.

Murdoch Norman Long was a lifelong Owen Sound lad who, like so many other local athletes of the 1950s and 1960s, cast his lot with the Department of Highways. He played goal with the Owen Sound Greys and Mercury’s, as well as the Durham Huskies and Meaford Knights. After hanging up his skates and baseball glove, he served the community for many seasons as a manager, coach, convenor of referees and umpires, and a fundraiser for youth sports. Pops / Grandpa was recognized for a lifetime of community involvement in 2025 when he was inducted into the Owen Sound Sports Hall of Fame.

Their grandchildren were their greatest source of pride and joy. They were survived by Leah Ferguson (daughter of Aubrey, and his wife, Cheryl), and Ossie, Maitland, and Kaedy Long (children of Mark, and his former wife, Mimi Bradley).

Gloria is survived by her sister, Evie Meads (Glen) of Durham, and Norm by his sister, Agnes Amlin (late Ron) of Goderich. They were predeceased by Garnet Ferguson, and Stan Long, Clyde Long, Ann Kelly, and their respective spouses, as well as Joan Millicent Long, who died in infancy. With many nieces and nephews across Canada, none were more attentive than the Kelly sisters, Kerry-Ann and Shannon-Lee.

Early retirement enabled them to spend many years living the dream. They saw the world together on cruises and winter trips, while summer was centred around South Baymouth and later, Woodland Park in Sauble Beach. In all cases, lifelong friendships were made and nurtured.

In their twilight years, the remarkable staff of Summit Place retirement facility created a loving and safe home for Gloria and Norm. The attentive efforts and caring commitment of each and every one there is immensely appreciated.

Brown Family Funeral Homes, Owen Sound were entrusted with private family arrangements and their professionalism and support are greatly appreciated.

Memorial online at www.brownfamilyfuneralhomes.com

• First Name : Gloria & Norm
• Last Name : Long
• Funeral Home : Brian E Wood Funeral Home, Owen Sound
• URL : https://www.brownfamilyfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/Norman-Gloria-Long?obId=47789690

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