Donald Long

Donald Ray Long was born in Grovespring, Missouri, on September 5, 1940, to Clyde Eldon Long and Ruth Geneva (McNealy) Long. Donald departed this world Friday, July 29, 2022, at the age of 81 years, 10 months and 24 days surrounded by his loved ones. In 1959, on his 19th birthday, Don married his ‘Sweet Pea’ Cathern Ann Robertson and together they shared 62 years. He professed his faith in Christ and was baptized at an early age and later became a Deacon at the Pleasant Grove (Cope) Church.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Arthur and Wilma Robertson, brother and sister-in-law, Owen and Beulah Long, sister and brother-in-law, Bettie and Harvey Whipple, sister-in-law, Connie Long, and daughter-in-law, Susan Long.

Don is survived by his wife, Cathern of Hartville, Missouri; his brother, Ronnie Long of Grovespring, Missouri; his children, Brady Long of Mexico, Missouri, Scott Long and his wife, Sheila, of Cabool, Missouri, Charles Long and his wife, Luciana, of Bryan, Texas, Kimberly Long Ersland and husband, Robin, of Minot, North Dakota; and an ever expanding group of eleven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Don graduated from Hartville High School in 1958. He worked in power and telephone construction for several years before becoming a beef and dairy farmer. Later he drove a bus for Hartville R-2 Schools and especially appreciated the opportunity to drive trip buses and spend time with students. Don dedicated his life to the improvement of his community, state and nation. It was important to him to be of service to his community and he did so through many organizations including the Wright County Junior Fair Board, Laclede Electric Round-Up Board, Cope Cemetery Board, Elk Creek Township Road Board, numerous state and local Republican groups, Grovespring Senior Center and many others. During his more than thirty years with the Grovespring Lions Club, he served as President and helped organize the July 4th Fireworks Display, the Horse Show and other events for the community to enjoy. He helped form several organizations including the Hartville School Foundation Board and the Hartville FFA Alumni Association. He was a lifelong Republican and provided steadfast support for candidates that shared his views.

Don and Cathern loved spending time together and travelled making many trips across Missouri and the United States, often visiting children and distant relatives. Don was a great friend to many and loved helping others. If you needed a hand you could count on him being the first one to arrive (because he was not going to be late). He enjoyed playing card games, especially Rook, with his family where his other favorite pastime of friendly teasing and laughter abounded. We will cherish the memories of yesterday and he will be missed and loved in every tomorrow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cope Cemetery, Integrity Hospice or any Non-Democrat charity of your choice.