Janet Long

Mystic — Janet T. Long, 77, of Mystic, wife of 52 years to Bill Long, died Thursday, April 28, 2016, at Yale-New Haven Hospital, surrounded by loved ones.

Born and raised on Nantucket Island, Mass., she was the daughter of the late Leroy and Eleanor (Jewett) True and has lived in Mystic since 1981. She attended and graduated from the Chandler School for Women in Boston.

She met Bill in 1962 when he was stationed with the U.S. Navy on Nantucket Island. They married in 1964 and raised four children, all while following Bill across the country and around the world as a Navy wife. They lived in various duty stations including Newfoundland, Canada, San Diego, and Yokohama, Japan, finally settling in Mystic after Bill’s retirement.

Janet was involved with the Girl Scouts of America for over 40 years, including holding the professional position of field director for the San Diego, Calif., council. While living in Newfoundland, Canada and Yokohama, Japan, she was very involved with the Girl Scout troops of those countries.

As a longtime member of Christ United Methodist Church of Groton, she started the popular “Drive Thru Christmas Nativity.” She was also very involved with the United Methodist Women’s organization, holding all positions, as well as president. During her time with UMW, she headed up such programs as “Tabs for Kidneys” and “Postage Stamps for Leprosy.”

Instilled from an early age by her father, she really enjoyed crafts, including woodworking, tole painting, cross stitch and quilting. She also enjoyed camping with her family and traveling.

In addition to her husband, she leaves her children, Steven Long and his wife, Karen, of North Stonington, Pamela Schmeelk and her husband, William, of Stonington, Scott Long and his wife, Michelle, of Ledyard and Kevin Long and his wife, Karen, of East Hartford; six grandchildren, William, Sarah, Amber, Matthew, Elizabeth and Alexandra; two great-grandchildren, Lillian and Violet; and one niece and one nephew.

She was predeceased by her sister, Lois Thompson.

A calling hour will be held from noon till 1 p.m. Monday, May 2, followed by a service at 1 p.m., at the Christ United Methodist Church, 200 Hazelnut Hill Road, Groton, where Janet was a faithful and active member. Her burial will follow the service at the Elm Grove Cemetery, Route 27, Mystic.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Christ United Methodist Church.