June 18, 2025
Delores DeLong age 99 of McMinnville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at Willow Branch on Tuesday morning, June 17, 2025. Born in West Virginia on August 22, 1925, she lived a long and joyful life marked by deep family ties and a lively spirit.
Delores was preceded in death by her beloved husband of many years, Lloyd DeLong; her parents, Samuel Boyd and Katie Mae Meddings Rhodes; 2 brothers, Marvin and Melvin Rhodes; 2 sisters, Tressie Jepaway and Thelma Paxton.
She is survived by her special niece, Linda (Delmas) Moore; great-niece and nephew, Melissa Moore and Douglas Moore, whom she considered her grandchildren; and great-great-nieces and nephew, Erin Perry, Jaksyn Moore and Matthew Perry, whom she cherished as her great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind sisters-in-law, Freda (David) Frazier and Evelyn (Norval) Young, along with many other nieces and nephews.
Known for her love of Christmas and all things festive, Delores brought warmth and laughter to every room she entered. Her passion for crafting was only matched by the size of her personality – big, bold and full of heart.
Funeral services will be 1 PM Thursday, June 19, 2025 at DeKalb Funeral Chapel with Bro. Garry McBride officiating and burial will follow in Jefferson Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday 11:AM util the time of the service at 1 PM. DeKalb Funeral Chapel is honored to care for the DeLong family.