Robert Roy Long

Roy went to his Heavenly home, surrounded by his loving family, on Monday evening, September 16, 2024 after a hard-fought illness. He was born to Melba (nee Crouse) and Bob Long in Hamilton, Ohio on August 2, 1952. He was a 1970 graduate of Talawanda High School. On February 16, 1973, he married the love of his life, Sharon Adkins.

He was a lifelong farmer in Oxford Township.  He and Sharon raised their two daughters along with their livestock and crops. Roy was a family man who worked hard all his life. He taught his girls to farm alongside him and instilled in them to work hard and that they could do anything the boys could do. He leaves a legacy of farming behind by being the 6th generation on the Long family farm and passing it down to the 7th and 8th generations, who will carry it on.

He took great joy in his grandchildren and their interests. He loved to participate in Antique Tractor Pulls with Ryan and attend McKenna's Barrel Racing shows. He adored her horse, Luna, and he was often accompanied by his trusted canine companion, Cooper. 

Roy was a man of faith, which he showed each spring by planting seeds and nurturing them until harvest. He also knew when to take a break and enjoyed many wonderful memories with his family at Norris Lake. He was known for his generous heart and he loved to help others. He spent six years serving his country  in the United States National Guard.  He served on the Butler County Farm Bureau Board, The Talawanda FFA Chapter Advisory Board, and a deacon at his church for years.  He was a member of the Talawanda FFA Alumni.

So many people were precious to Roy and he will be deeply missed by treasured family and friends. He is the beloved husband of Sharon (nee Adkins) Long for 51 years; devoted father of Melissa (Matt) Gillespie and Michelle (Adam) Miller; cherished grandfather of Ryan Gillespie and McKenna Gillespie; all of Oxford, Oh; his faithful friend  and "Tennessee Son" John (Keisha) Carroll of LaFollete Tn; and  brother of four siblings, Bill (Louise) Long, of Oxford, Chuck (Diane) Long;  Debbie, (Bud) Chaney of Liberty, In. , and Sally (Bruce) Smith of West College Corner, In.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws Kenneth and Edna Adkins, and his  grandmother Ruth Long, who was like a mother to him. 

The family would like to sincerely thank Roy's care team during his illness, especially Dr. Adhami and all the nurses that became like family; and to everyone that has supported us this past year with prayers and love and acts of kindness.

A visitation for Roy will be held on Wednesday, September 25, 2024 at Cobblestone Community Church in Oxford from 10 am until time of funeral service at 12:30 pm, officiated by Pastor Bob Huff of  The Stockyard Cowboy Church. Burial to immediately follow at Darrtown Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Roy's memory to the church or a charity of your choice. 

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