William Edward "Bill" Long, 95, passed away on Monday, March 2, 2026, at his home in rural Smith County, KS.
Bill was born on April 29, 1930, in a Stonehouse southwest of Lebanon, Kansas, the son of Jay and Margaret (Cunningham) Long. He was the second oldest of five children.
He graduated from Lebanon High School with the Class of 1948 and earned his State Farmer Degree in FFA, reflecting his lifelong dedication to agriculture.
In 1952, Bill was drafted into the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War era and served honorably until 1954. He was stationed in Japan as a radio relay operator. During the final months of his service, he was offered an opportunity to work in the nation's early space and aeronautics program, which later became NASA. Instead, Bill chose to return to his Kansas roots - to marry Dorothy, build a family, and farm the land he loved.
While serving, he maintained a steady courtship with Dorothy, whom he had met at a skating rink in Smith Center, Kansas. They dated throughout their time in the service and were united in marriage on September 3, 1954, at Thornburg Church. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and farming.
Bill was a lifelong farmer and steward of the land. His commitment to his community extended far beyond the farm. He was one of the first ambulance drivers in the area, volunteering his time to serve neighbors in moments of need. He also drove a school bus, safely transporting generations of local children.
Faith was central to Bill's life. He faithfully taught Sunday school for many years and was an ordained minister, quietly living out his beliefs through service and leadership.
Bill was also an active amateur (ham) radio operator, known by his call sign WXOP. He volunteered for many years during Old Settlers Day, helping provide communication support for the community.
Bill and Dorothy were blessed with four children: Mark Long, Nancy Long, Lisa Long, John and Gina Long.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jay and Margaret Long; his sister, Nola Bess; his brothers, Warren, Robert and John; his daughter, Nancy Long; and his son, John Long.
He is survived by his wife of many years, Dorothy Long; his children, Mark Long of Smith Center, Kansas, and Lisa Long of Missouri; his daughter-in-law, Gina Long of Smith Center; three grandsons, Josh, Jess, and Jake; three granddaughters, Rebecca, Kaitlynne, and Bre'Oona; and several great-grandchildren.
Bill will be remembered for his steady faith, strong work ethic, servant's heart, and unwavering commitment to his family, church, and community.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 9, 2026, at the First Christian Church, 400 US HWY 36, Smith Center, KS, with Pastor Dennis Lambert officiating. Visitation will be held on Monday, March 9, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the church. Burial with military honors will take place in Fairview Cemetery, Smith Center, KS. Memorials may be given to the First Christian Church of Smith Center and can be sent in care of All Faiths Funeral Chapel, 113 S. Madison St., Smith Center, KS.