Sandra Long

Sandra MacDonald Long passed on July 20, 2026 after a short illness. She was lovingly and prayerfully surrounded by family and friends in her final days.

Sandy was born on October 4, 1940 in Niagra Falls, New York to Floyd and Lillian MacDonald. She was raised in Erie, Pennsylvania before graduating from Mercyhurst College. Sandy moved to Louisville, Kentucky where she met her husband of 54 years. Their journey as a couple took them to Cleveland, Ohio and raised their family in Marietta, Georgia. They relocated and later retired in Bluffton, South Carolina where they thrived for 30 years.

Sandy is survived by her son Chris Long (wife Christy), son-in-law Mark Hawkins and her beloved grandchildren Wilder Long, Isabel Long, Lillian Long, Hunter Hawkins and Ellie Hawkins. Sandy was predeceased by her husband Earl Long, her daughter Carrie Hawkins, her parents and brothers Floyd (Mickey) MacDonald and Neil MacDonald.

Sandy was deeply committed to the mission of supporting teenagers in exploring and growing their faith through Young Life and were instrumental in bringing YoungLife to Bluffton & Hilton Head and helping launch Young Life Capernam which created space of belonging for teenagers with intellectual and development disabilities.

Sandy was known for her unique creativity. She simply could make anything look prettier with a bow or flowers. She was a certified Master Gardnerer from Clemson University. More than a few people in the Lowcountry received one of her signature gift baskets though her business Picked for You.

Sandy was known for her grace and kindness to all. She never met a friend or stranger without a warm conversation ensuing.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, August 8 at 10:00 AM at the Church of the Cross (Historic Campus), 110 Calhoun Street, Bluffton, SC 29910. Interment and reception immediately following the service. In memory of Sandy’s vibrant spirit, please feel free to dress in bright and cheerful attire.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to:

Young Life Hilton Head/Bluffton at https://giving.younglife.org/s/ or Young Life Capernaum at https://capernaum.younglife.org.