Clara Lockhart Collins Long (1928 – 2024)

Clara Lockhart Collins Long, 96, passed away on July 7, 2024 in Luray, Virginia.

Clara Lockhart Collins Long with Bing Crosby.

She arrived on January 5, 1928, and was born to Cathleen “Kitty” Hughes Ryan and Raymond Edison Collins in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Known as “Cissie”, she was bigger than life… a glamorous, witty and charming 50’s-style belle who drove a black Cadillac convertible with red tail fins. She posed with Bing Crosby when he visited Front Royal, Virginia, for the 1950 stadium grand opening and movie premiere.

Cissie was predeceased by her husband, Hoyle Barton “H.B.” Long, Sr. Together, they made a smart and savvy duo for many of Virginia’s caverns – Skyline, Shenandoah, Luray, Harper’s Ferry, and Natural Bridge. H.B. also raised turkeys near their Limeton, Virginia home. They later lived at the historic Chester House in Front Royal. Both Cissie and her mom, Kitty, adored antiques and art. The Collins Antique Shop was located on Royal Avenue for many years.

In addition to her parents and husband, Cissie was preceded in death by her stepson, Hoyle Barton “Benny” Long, Jr.; sisters, Cathleen “Cassie” Shirley and Mary Lou; brother, Ray Allen Collins (Jane Canter Dutrow); and cousin, Larry Roy Collins.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Lisa “Goodie” Hughes Long; nieces Anne Hughes and Nancy Barton; nephew, David Dutrow Collins (Carole Ann Yarbenet); and Larry’s wife, Charlene Denise Cooke of Huntley, Virginia.

There will be a private family burial. May Cissie rest in peace.