Joni Long

Joni Long, age 82, of Hot Springs, passed away on Monday, August 2, 2021.

She was born on June 12, 1939, in Peoria, Illinois. She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Long; and two daughters, Teresa Heinz and Jeanni Heinz.

Joni was a pro bowler and a member of many bowling clubs, Pro Bowlers Association and the NABA. She was very competitive and won many bowling trophies and awards. As a pro bowler she was awarded with many trophies, pendants, rings and was also inducted in the Pro Bowler’s Hall of Fame. She had several 300 perfect games, also several 700 series. She loved instructing and volunteering for the Senior Bowling Olympics and the Special Olympics, who she donated all her awards and trophies too. She also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity. Joni was also a black belt in martial arts and judo.

She was a respected and loved woman of this community for many years. Joni was as feisty as she was loving, she helped anyone who needed it, always standing up for the weak and the underdog. She loved her animals and her cat, Mr. Boogers, will miss her as much as we all do.

She is survived by three sons and daughters-in-law, Richard Michael Heinz and Michelle Jones-Heinz, James Anthony Heinz and Michele Heinz and Edward Lee Heinz and Kim Keith Heinz; her daughter and son-in-law, Anastocia Linn Heinz and John petter Vulistis; her grandchildren, Taylor Daunt-Heinz, Eric Heinz and Michael Edward Harris-Heinz, Rayne Fallstar, Alexandria Antuinette Joy-Linn Vulistis, Mikia Nicole Nielsen, Aiden Jones, Dalila Smith, Ashley House, Dalton House and Cheyenne Love; numerous nieces, nephew, extended family members and a host of wonderful friends.

Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Smith Funeral Home, Hot Springs.

Guest registry is at www.davis-smith.com.