Obituary of Alison Louise Long

Alison Louise Long, 62, died after a long battle with chronic illnesses on January 10, 2022, in Greenville, SC. Her final days were spent surrounded by family and friends over the holidays. Confronted most of her life with debilitating health issues, Alison beat the staggering odds countless times with her mix of unflinching determination and a strong faith. Alison attended Magnolia High School in New Martinsville, WV. She continued her education at West Virginia University, graduating in 1981 with a nursing degree. She worked at Duke University hospital and Greenville Heartlife Center, where she developed a following of adoring patients and friends. In the hearts and minds of Alison's family and friends she'll be dearly missed and fondly remembered for many things: as a compulsive baker who showered loved ones with the sweet things in life, the consummate shopper with a penchant for all things pink, a gentle soul with a soft spot in her heart for children, and as a kind individual who unfailingly spurned the disparagement of others while defending the most vulnerable. In a family of fierce competitors Alison was something of an outlier, reserving her inexhaustible strength and resolve to combat personal struggles and illness. An avid swimmer from the age of 8, Alison discovered a competitive streak later in life when she participated in the 1998 Transplant Olympics at Ohio State University, taking home a first place medal. (Alison received a kidney 1992 from her father and had a pancreas transplant one year later, keeping both organs until she passed away.) For 25 years she was an active member of the Fourth Presbyterian Church and worked with various charities such as United Ministries and the Sterling Community. Alison is survived by her mother and father, Philip and Nancy Long of Greenville; sister Susan; brothers Philip, Michael and Patrick; four nephews and one niece. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: United Ministries, 606 Pendleton Street Greenville, SC 29601 or Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 5 Century Drive #240 Greenville, SC 29607.