Mr. Ronald Lester Long, the patriarch of our Family, affectionately known as "Pappy" by his grandchildren, has been called home to assist the Angels and walk with our Lord after an extended struggle with Pulmonary Fibrosis.

Mr. Long was preceded in death by his parents, Robert E. and Emily Pearl Swann; sisters and brothers-in-law, Maggie and Felix Hendrix and Mildred and Earl Willis; brothers and sisters-in-law, Homer and Merle Long and Wilbur and Vene Long.

Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Mrs. Doris Long; daughter and son-in-law, Donnie and Marsha Ballew; and son Tracy Long; grandchildren, Gary and Christina Ballew, Bryan and Melissa Ballew, and Ken and Shayna Moses; great-grandchildren, Brittany, Ashley, BreAnna, Kendra, Dylan and Luke; and a host of nieces and nephews. Mr. Long was a remarkable husband to Mrs. Doris Long for 64 years; a wonderful Father and provider for Marsha and Tracy; an excellent Grandfather and mentor to Gary, Bryan, and Shayna, the Great-Grandfather to six wonderful great-grandchildren, and a reliable friend to everyone he knew. We will forever and lovingly remember, profoundly respect and sincerely mourn Pappy until we see him again in Heaven.

Pappy made numerous valiant sacrifices throughout his life; this included his blood, sweat and numerous tears unselfishly given for the good of this Country, for each of his friends and especially for his Family! We are honored, fortunate and grateful to have known and loved such an amazing, impressive, extraordinary man and distinguished Combat Veteran!

While fighting for our Freedom and defending our great Country during World War II, Pappy distinguished himself on three separate occasions for his actions in combat. Each time, after being severely injured during battle with enemy forces, he was awarded a Purple Heart. Thank you Pappy for all the sacrifices you have made and the freedoms you have provided us!

After 89 years, Pappy''s lungs could no longer sustain the fast pace he was accustomed. However, the lessons he taught us, his thoughtful advice, the important guidance and the many valuable suggestions Pappy provided all members of his family will guarantee that his legacy of humility, concern and love will continue to live within each of our hearts until we are reunited with him!

Pappy''s humble manner, his compassionate disposition and the way he would give to others before taking for himself are only a few examples of his caring personality. Pappy provided inspiration and had an enormous influence on everyone he touched. Because of him, this world is a better much place. It is an honor and privilege to have known and love him.

No amount of descriptive words on a page or caring expressions will ever describe our Family''s love, admiration, respect or appreciation for our Pappy. However, if you knew Pappy, we know you understand. If you believe in prayer, the next time you dedicate time to speak with our Lord, please remember Pappy and our Family''s immeasurable loss. May the Lord bless you as much as Pappy has blessed and inspired our entire Family.

Memorial services will be conducted Saturday, May 5, 2012 at 11:00 A.M. from Hutcheson''s Memorial Chapel with Bro. Jeff Layton and George Healey officiating.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Saturday, May 5, 2012 from 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M.

Hutcheson''s Memorial Chapel & Crematory of Buchanan is in charge of the arrangements.