Jayvonese "Jay" Longus, age 76, of Waubun, Minnesota, passed away on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Benedictine Community in Ada, MN.

Jayvonese Ann Longus was born on May 2, 1949, in Marshalltown, IA, to Ralph Longus and Alice Moore. She attended Marshalltown High School, graduating with the Class of 1967. After high school, Jay pursued cosmetology school in Des Moines, IA, and held various jobs before moving to California in 1982.

While in California, Jay worked as a secretary at the Indian Center in San Jose until moving to Minnesota in 1995. After moving back, she worked for several years at the Midway Group Home, followed by a meaningful career with Indian Child Welfare as a foster care licensor. Jay later took a position with White Earth Transit as a dispatch office manager, where she worked until her retirement in early 2023 at the age of 73.

Jay was a hardworking woman who often held multiple jobs at once and built lasting friendships wherever she went. She was well known in the community and deeply valued the relationships she created over the years. Jay bravely battled stage four lung cancer for several years and was most recently in remission.

Family meant everything to Jay. She was blessed with two children, Jason and Jeneane, who later reconnected and shared a close bond. Jay shared a loving relationship of 39 years with her significant other, John Parsons. She was also part of a close-knit family group affectionately known as "The Stepping Stones," which included Dennis, Jason, Neily, Jeneane, and Jerri.  Jay had a special fondness for dogs, especially her beloved companions over the years, Chewy and Pugsley. She treasured Christmas with her family and never forgot a birthday.

When she wasn't working, Jay enjoyed a little retail therapy, always on the hunt for the best thrift store deals. She also loved fishing and trying her luck at her favorite slot machine, "Whales of Cash." Known for her wonderful sense of humor, Jay loved to make those around her laugh. Her strength, resilience, and warmth left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Jay is survived by her Children, Jason (Stacy) Knox and Jeneane Knox; Grandchildren: Jessica, Javonnis, Jase and Corinthia; Great-Grandchildren: Knox, Magnolia, Zane, Elias; Aunt, Maxine Burns; Significant Other, John Parsons; Brother, Kevan Moore; Special Cousins: Neily (Chuck) Anderson and Jerri (Jamie) Hawks; Special Friend, Karla Mayhews and many Nieces and Nephews.

Jay was preceded in death by her Parents, Alice and Clarence Moore; father, Ralph Longus; Siblings, David Moore, Donovan Moore, and Mary Moore Sr.; Niece, Mary Moore Jr.; Nephew, Nathan Moore; Special Aunts and Uncle, Jeremiah, Ethel, Ruth and Kathleen; and many extended family.

There will be a graveside celebration this spring but per Jay's request there will be no services held at this time.