Russell Rockne Long's Obituary
Russell Rockne Long, age 87, of Little Elm, Texas, passed away on Friday, December 26, 2025. He was born in Ponca City, Oklahoma, on February 5, 1938.
Russell served 2 years in the Navy (1960-1962). He married Shirley (Mullins) Long on October 26, 1963. They made their home and raised their family in Salina, Kansas, for 48 years. Russell received his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Northwestern Oklahoma State University; his Master’s Degree in Education from Kansas State University and taught in the Salina School District for 35 years, starting at Roosevelt Lincoln Junior High for two years, then teaching economics at Central High School his remaining years. He coached freshman football, wrestling, and track, enjoying having his son, Jeff, in all these sports. He was a long-time member of the Nazarene Church.
Russell was happiest when surrounded by his family. He loved the Lord and wanted others to know Him too, always praying over whoever was visiting before they would leave. He is survived by his wife Shirley, of 62 years; his son Jeff Long (Christy), and grandsons Shelby (Korla), Cody and Matthew Long; his daughter Christy Macy (Brian), and grandsons Jacob and Joshua, and granddaughter Aubrey Macy. He was so proud of his family and made sure they knew how much he loved them every chance he had.
Russell is preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Hazel Long.
We are so grateful for the care he was shown in his last days by the nurses and staff of Kindful Health hospice. They were a godsend in a very difficult time and truly angels on earth.
Russell’s testimony and hope for eternity can be summed up in the first verse from Amazing Grace.
Amazing grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind, but now I see
Memorial contributions may be made to Show Mercy International, a ministry in Uganda started in 2003 by family members with a passion for people and to share the love of Jesus. Their website is https://www.showmercy.org or a check can be mailed to PO Box 1003 Port Gibson, MS 39150.
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