Vicky Long

Vicky Lynn Long, 71, of Thompsonville—formerly of Traverse City—passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

Born on June 22, 1955, Vicky built a life defined by grit, loyalty, and an unmistakable work ethic. She spent her career driving trucks for Ken’s Pick Up Service, her true love driving concrete truck for Team Elmer’s, a role she embraced with pride and determination. Colleagues remember her as the kind of driver everyone wanted on their crew—steady under pressure, meticulous with her work, and always willing to take on the tough jobs without complaint.

Vicky's work ethic was just part of the foundation of who she was. The way she worked was the way she lived—with grit, precision, and resilience. but unwavering dedication, and a steady presence that others relied on.

At the center of Vicky’s life was her partner of more than 33 years, John Pickard, her constant companion and steadfast support. Their bond was one of shared strength, humor, banter, and loyalty—an enduring partnership built on love and mutual devotion.

Vicky was a devoted mother. She is survived by her sister Pam, son Randy Merchant (Sarah), and she took great pride in her grandchildren—Nathan, Alyssa, Lauryn and Shelbi—each of whom brought her immeasurable joy. She is also lovingly remembered by the father of her two sons, Clarence Merchant, as well as John’s children, Tammi Saywell and Tanya Mitz (Floyd) and grandchild Sarah Hansen (Greg) & their children, who were embraced fully into her heart and family.

Vicky was preceded in death by her parents Charles & Ruth Long, sibling Laura Bradford, son, Mathew Merchant, and niece Venus Bradford, along with many relatives whose memory she carried with her every day.

Her life was filled with simple pleasures: berry picking, canning, baking cookies for family and friends, pizzas for the NASCAR Daytona race and those Detroit Tigers. She enjoyed traveling with long time friend Jean Ansorge on many adventures.

She found joy in hard work, in loyalty, and in the deep connections she built over a lifetime.

A celebration for Vicky will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026, at Life Story Funeral Home in Traverse City. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and honor the strength, humor, and love she brought into the world.

Vicky will be remembered for her resilience, her devotion, and her unmistakable presence—a woman who showed up, worked hard, loved deeply, and left a legacy carried forward by everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Please visit www.lifestorytc.com to share your thoughts and more.