Jeffery Kirk Long, 58, passed away in his sleep, after a long illness, on July 13, 2022. Jeff was born in Lamar, MO on February 5, 1964, to parents Robert Marvin Long and Carol Sue (Collins) Long.
As a child, Jeff enjoyed being outdoors, playing games and sports with his many friends. Family was always a big part of Jeff’s life, spending many Sundays gathered at his Grandparents farm, northwest of Lamar, Missouri. He was surrounded by aunts, uncles, and cousins, enjoying his grandmother’s home cooked meals and an abundance of laughter. His parents, Bob & Carol, and brother Randy spent many weekends at the lake and made many memories on vacations to several states.
The family, including older brother, Randy, moved several times, eventually settling in Carthage, Missouri. Jeff attended Mark Twain Elementary and Carthage High School, graduating in 1982. He played on both the Baseball & Basketball varsity teams. Jeff then went on to Labette Community College on a baseball scholarship. He then transferred to Missouri Southern State University, graduating with a BSBA degree in 1986.
After graduating college, Jeff continued employment with the company he had worked part-time for since his junior year in High School, Leggett & Platt, Inc. Jeff would enjoy a 40-year career, working in Missouri, Kentucky, California, and Arizona. Jeff made Arizona his permanent home and absolutely loved it there.
Jeff married in 1994, to Tami (Loy) Long and they had two children, Austin and Abby. His kids meant the world to him. His life choices and health decisions were all made for their benefit. Jeff maintained his network of childhood friends his entire life and was known for his quick wit, wisecracking humor, and he strived to keep those around him laughing and happy. He always attempted to distract away from his own personal illness.
Jeff was a member of First Baptist Church of Carthage during his youth, where he was saved & baptized.
Jeff is survived by his son, Austin Jeffery Long; his daughter, Abigail Jean Long; their mother, Tami (Loy) Long; his father, Robert M. Long; his brother, Randal S. Long and wife Nicole Long; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews & nieces.
Jeff was preceded in death by his mother, Carol S. (Collins) Long; his grandparents, Marvin & Lorraine (Lucietta) Long; grandparents, Chet & Ruth (Rackley) Collins; and his uncles Jerry Collins and Alvin Collins.
A visitation will be held at the Ulmer Funeral Home in Carthage, Missouri, on Wednesday, July 20, 2022, from 9:00 to 10:00 am. Graveside services will immediately follow at 10:30 am at the Memory Gardens Cemetery in Lamar, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Barrow Neurological Institute, 2910 N. 3rd Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85013; (855) 977-9496 in care of Ulmer Funeral Home.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of Ulmer Funeral Home.
