Doris Long Prescott Blanding

Doris Long Prescott Blanding was born June 24, 1939, in Richland County, South Carolina, the beloved daughter of the late Luke Wade Long Sr. and Lorena Long. On Tuesday, February 3, 2026, she transitioned from this earthly life at her residence of fifty years surrounded by her loving family.

“Tootsie,” as she was affectionately called by family and friends, was educated in the public schools of Richand County where she attended Howard Elementary and Booker T. Washington High Schools. Doris began her life-long career in nursing at Columbia Hospital. She later retired from Richland Memorial Hospital (PRISMA Health), after more than twenty-five years of faithful and dedicated service. During her tenure, she received many accolades, awards and certificates for her service and care for the patients she served.

Doris was first married to Samuel Prescott, and to their union five daughters were born. She was later married to the late David Blanding and to this union a daughter was adopted; together they blended a beautiful family filled with love.

Mrs. Blanding was a faithful and longtime member of Second Nazareth Baptist Church in Columbia, for more than sixty years. Though she was not currently active due to her declining health, she devotedly supported the church’s mission and activities.

Doris’ life was marked by active involvement in the Elks Lodge, the VFW, Pinehurst Community, Primrose Temple Order of Eastern Star and the Howard School Committee. She also faithfully served in several other organizations where she left a lasting impression on those around her.

In addition to her parents, and husband, Doris was also preceded in death by two brothers, Wade Long and Dr. Willie Long.

Those who are cherishing fond and precious memories of Doris are her six loving daughters, D. Diana Prescott, Rosa Mae Prescott, Patricia Ann Prescott, Margaret Lavern Prescott and Tina Elaine Prescott, all of Columbia, SC; and Alicia D. Rouse of Augusta, GA; her brother, James (Dorothy) Long of Stone Mountain, GA; sister, Thomasina Bell of Columbia, SC; sister-in-law, Mary P. Long of Columbia, SC.  Remaining to honor her life legacy are her grandchildren, Breyon Prescott of CA, Shakita (Germell) Milton of NC, Mieka Tatum of GA, Narada Washington TX, Paul Prescott,  Patrick Prescott,  Printice Prescott,  Venus Tillman, all of SC, and Trinity Rouse of GA; as well as a host great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; nephews, nieces, cousins, and other loving relatives and dear friends, all of whom will dearly miss her.

“While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life well lived.”

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