Shirley Elaine Long Sanford, age 53, of Ellijay, GA, passed away Sunday, September 22, 2013 at her home. Mrs. Sanford was born September 24, 1959 to the late Dashiel C. Long and Lorene Virginia Kirby Long. She was a homemaker and of the Baptist faith.

Mrs. Sanford is survived by her spouse, Eddie Sanford; son, Eddie Sanford II; and daughter, Kennedi Sanford, all of Ellijay, GA; brother, Roger (Rita) Long of Mineral Bluff, GA; nephew, Russell Long of Mineral Bluff, GA; niece, Chasity Ledford of Murphy, NC; and great-niece, Ella Hazel Ledford also of Murphy, NC. Also surviving are a host of cousins, relatives, and friends.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, September 28, 2013 from Mineral Bluff Baptist Church with Rev. Gary Parris and Rev. Bill Johnson officiating. Music will be provided by Helping Hand Church Choir. The following gentlemen will serve as pallbearers: Larry Davenport, Jerry Davenport, Danny Kirby, Dane Kirby, Greg Nazarian, Johnny Chastain, and John Chastain. Interment will follow in Union Church Cemetery with Min. Butch Jones officiating.

Friends may visit the family Friday from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.

Those wishing may make a memorial contribution to Homeward Bound Pet Rescue, P.O. Box 792 Ellijay, GA 30540, in memory of Mrs. Sanford. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.akinsfuneralhome.com. Akins Funeral Home of Blue Ridge was in charge of arrangements.