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CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF ESTELLE LOLA MAYME JONES LONG
WHEREAS, Estelle J. Long (née Jones) born on August 13, 1920, in Evanston, Illinois, daughter of Albert and Nancy Jones, was shaped by a family rooted in discipline, education, artistry, and patriotism-values that guided her through a lifetime of quiet strength and courageous leadership; and
WHEREAS, we pause in solemn respect and profound gratitude to honor the life and legacy of Estelle Lola Mayne Jones Long, whose remarkable 105 years stand as a testament to faith, resilience, service, and enduring love; and
WHEREAS, as a young woman, she demonstrated uncommon bravery and conviction, standing firmly for dignity and fairness during a time of deep racial injustice, using her voice, intellect, and presence to advocate for equal treatment and respect; and
WHEREAS, during World War II, she answered the call to serve her nation through civilian defense work, contributing her talents to critical wartime industries and embodying the spirit and sacrifice of the “Rosie the Riveter” generation; and
WHEREAS, she built a life anchored in love and partnership with her beloved husband, Albin C. Long, a United States Army Drill Sergeant, and together they established a home in Chicago’s Chatham community where they raised five children with unwavering commitment, discipline, and purpose; and
WHEREAS, her professional journey reflects excellence and perseverance, as she dedicated more than 40 years to public service with the City of Chicago, rising to become a respected accountant in the Comptroller’s Office while also earning both her undergraduate and master’s degrees in public administration from Roosevelt University; and
WHEREAS, her faith and service extended far beyond her professional career, as she remained deeply engaged in her church, her community, and the lives of others-mentoring youth, uplifting families, and advocating for seniors, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege to know her; and
WHEREAS, her greatest legacy lives on through her beloved family: her children, Carol Long, Richard Long, Patsy Walker, Nancy Long, and Gerald Long; her cherished grandchildren, Aisha Hill, Aziza Benson, Wahtura Jackson, Jennifer Komis, Rachel Walker, Joseph Walker IV, and Patricia Walker; and her 19 great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward her strength, values, and spirit; and
WHEREAS, Estelle J. Long’s life was not only measured in years, but in impact-through every barrier she broke, every life she touched, and every generation she inspired-she leaves behind a legacy of dignity, grace, courage, and unwavering love; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and Members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners do hereby honor and celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Estelle Lola Mayme Jones Long, and extend heartfelt condolences to her family while recognizing that her light continues to shine through the lives she shaped; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Estelle Lola Mayme Jones Long as a symbol of our deepest respect, admiration, and gratitude for a life so beautifully and powerfully lived; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this resolution be entered into the official proceedings of the Cook County Board of Commissioners and preserved as part of the County’s permanent archival record, so that the life, legacy, and contributions of Estelle Lola Mayme Jones Long shall remain a lasting part of Cook County history.
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