Emily Mae Long

Danville - Emily Mae (Warner) Long, a vibrant 36-year-old, left this world on June 7, 2025 at 2:39 PM, surrounded by the people she loved most, after living a life that touched more hearts than words can fully capture. 

She was born on May 4, 1989, in Catlin IL to Perry and Pam Warner, they survive. Emily married the love of her life, Dustin Long, on June 7, 2008. He survives. They went on to create a beautiful family together where they brought three incredible boys into this world: Avery, Brantley, and Coltly Long. They survive. Emily’s boys and husband were the light of her life and her entire world. They brought her so much joy and happiness.

Emily is survived by sisters Monica (John) Meharry of Catlin, Shawna (Steven) Donaldson of Catlin; her maternal grandmother Joy Pierce of Catlin; her mother and father-in-law Ken & Cinnamon Long of Danville; her sister-in-law Brandi (Austin) Tuttle of Danville; four nieces and two nephews, Ava & Amelia Donaldson, Tommie & Preslie Meharry, Lucas & Wyatt Tuttle and numerous other relatives and cherished friends. She was preceded in death by her grandfather Richard Pierce, grandparents Perry & Shirley Warner, Merle & Jean Long, Jim & Shirley McCrone, Amanda Wagner and Ryan Martin. 

The world lost a truly special soul with the passing of Emily. Known for her boundless compassion and heart of gold, Emily lived every day with the purpose of lifting others up. Emily never hesitated to extend her hand or her heart. Her life was a living example of grace in action. 

Emily was a 2007 graduate of Catlin High School. She later went on and earned a degree in Business at AIU. Where she excelled and made the dean's list every semester. Emily loved going on golf cart rides with her husband and spending time attending her boys’ sporting events. She loved watching them and was so proud of all their accomplishments. Emily had a great eye for fashion and lit up a room when she would walk in. 

Emily began her career with Project Success in 2021. Her job was more than just a job to her. She loved her job and most importantly the students that she worked with each day. Emily was a Site Coordinator where she worked with students and families at all three Salt Fork schools. Emily was a part of many committees. Emily was great at making connections and doing everything she could to help make Project Success the place that it is. Her coworkers viewed her as family, and they will love and miss her every day. 

Emily gave without ever expecting in return and loved without condition. She believed in the good of people and had a beautiful soul whose life was defined by kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for others. She would drop everything to help someone in need — family, friend, or stranger alike. Her compassion knew no limits, and she brought light into every room with her smile, her laughter, and her gentle spirit. She gave without question, loved without limits, and left behind a legacy that will be felt for generations. 

She leaves behind family, friends, and a community made brighter by her light. Though her time here was far too short, the impact she made is everlasting. To honor Emily’s memory, those who knew and loved her are encouraged to continue her mission of kindness — help someone, speak gently, and love deeply. Emily was the kind of person the world rarely sees, and we are better for having known her. She will be missed beyond measure and remembered always. 

In lieu of flowers, Emily would like donations to be made to Dustin Long for their three boys.

A service to celebrate the life of Emily Long will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, June 14, 2025 at the Catlin Church of Christ, 715 W. Vermilion St. Catlin, IL 61817. Pastor Chris Lawler will officiate. Cremation rites will be accorded. Visitation will be held from 10 AM – 2 PM prior to the service on Saturday, also at Catlin Church of Christ. Sunset Funeral Home, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL 61834 has been entrusted with arrangements.

Please join Emily’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of her life through her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.