Belenda Lee Ockels

Belenda Lee Long Ockels, 76, of Waco, passed away on Saturday morning, April 26, 2025, at Reassuring Care in Corpus Christi, TX, with her son by her side. She maintained her dignity and grace throughout a valiant struggle with Parkinson's disease.

Belenda was born in Hico, TX, September 25, 1948, the daughter of E.S. and Rilla Juanita Long.

A retired Brookhaven Boys’ Ranch educator in West ISD, she began teaching in Bruceville-Eddy ISD and Eagle Lake after receiving her teacher certification later in life. Belenda graduated from China Spring High School in 1967 as valedictorian of her class and attended East Texas State University on a 4H Gold Star Scholarship, which she was very proud of being the recipient. With earning a degree in Business with Fashion Merchandising, she worked for Schwab Taylor Gavener, Sangar Harris and was the youngest buyer for J. C. Penney’s in the southern states. She joined the Coast Guard Reserves in support of her country. After her son was born, Belenda returned to the Waco area and worked for Frank Weaver Pontiac. She loved attending church with family and friends throughout her life and above all she loved God.

She is proceeded in her death by her parents, brother Rodney L. Long and great niece Millie Long. She is survived by her son, Christian and his wife Kelsey, four grandchildren, Devin Ockels of San Marcos, Lili, Oliver, and William Ockels of Alice; three brothers Robert Long and his wife, Mindy of Austin, Darrel Long and his wife, Pamela of Anson, Texas, and Tommy Long and Debbie McCraw of China Spring; nephews Ryan Long and wife, Emily, Shiloh Long and wife Naomi, and Ely Long and wife Jenny, and Chance Sanders; great nephews and nieces, Bronson, Keaton, and Owen Long, Ashlyn, Abigail, William and Maddie Long, and Asa Long.

The graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, May 1, at New IOOF Cemetery in Hamilton, TX.

The family wishes to express its appreciation to the many friends that have provided support during her years of difficult times. You are invited to join us in honoring Belenda at the graveside service in Hamilton. Following the service, there will be a celebration of her life at Cranfills Gap Community Center, located at 312 North 3rd Street.

Arrangements were entrusted to Lawson Funeral Home, Meridian, Texas 254-435-2792.