The Pickaway County Community Foundation (PCCF) is honored to receive a gift from the estate of Lydia Delong, which is being used to set up the Lydia Delong Fund for Education. The fund’s broad mission is to support education in Pickaway County.
Alexis Conrad, PCCF executive director, said we are honored to be one of several organizations receiving funds from Lydia’s estate.
Conrad said, “There’s no question that Lydia has left a lasting impact on Pickaway County. Her fund at PCCF will aid students for decades to come and her gifts to other organizations will make a tremendous impact.”
Lydia’s cousin, Betty Wolford, said the scholarship was right in line with her interest in education. Her career was spent in the education field. She served as secretary to the superintendent of Pickaway County Schools and retired as secretary in the Ohio Department of Education in the transportation division. Even though she never had children of her own, she shared her love of education with many children.
DeLong was a lifelong Pickaway County resident, living first in Circleville and later moving to a farm in Washington Township as a child. There, the family farmed and raised animals. As an adult, she made woven baskets, knitted, and created one-of-a-kind greeting cards.
Betty said, “She made approximately 200 baskets in every shape, color, and design. Her knitting was beautiful and greeting cards were exceptional. Those of us who received them as gifts were very appreciative and thrilled to have them.”
St. Paul United Methodist Church was a vital part of her life. As a member she served as pianist, organist, and treasurer for over 50 years. She also served as secretary of the women’s group, writing minutes that included previous meeting info, humor, and history.
In addition to PCCF, Lydia left gifts to several other Pickaway County organizations.
Betty said, “The funds will continue to positively impact the community she loved. A lot of people are going to benefit from her generosity. Caring for others was a very important part of her life.”