Ronald Eugene Long , 80, proud Air Force veteran, devoted family man, and passionate student of history, passed away peacefully at his home in Rose Hill, Kansas, on May 20, 2025, with his loving family by his side.

Born on September 11, 1944, in Madisonville, Kentucky, to Eugene and Martha Jane (Wiseman) Long, Ronald grew up in a small town with a big heart. He spent his early years playing football and baseball and graduated from high school in Madisonville. Even in his youth, Ronald carried a deep sense of honor, discipline, and love for his country—qualities that would guide him throughout his life.

After high school, Ronald enlisted in the United States Air Force, beginning a distinguished 22-year military career. His service took him and his growing family across the globe, including stations in Florida, Germany, Oklahoma, New York, Colorado, Texas, Arizona, and Kansas. It was during his early posting in Florida that Ronald met and married the love of his life, Diana Kathleen Burkhart. Together they raised three children and built a life full of adventure, dedication, and deep family ties.

Ronald was a man of many passions. He loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing—pastimes that allowed him to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature. A devoted patriot and lifelong student of American and world history, Ronald had an encyclopedic memory and could recall the dates and details of historic events with stunning clarity. Whether traveling with family or exploring on his own, he never missed an opportunity to stop at historical markers or battlegrounds, always eager to learn and to share what he knew.

Ronald's intense and passionate nature was most evident when it came to the people he loved. He was a fiercely loyal father, grandfather, and great-grandfather—never shy about showing his pride or support. He believed in service, integrity, and standing up for what was right. He also remained actively engaged in political discussions and was never afraid to speak his mind, especially when it concerned the well-being of his family or his country.

Ronald is survived by his children: Catherine Lietz (Richard), Ronald Long Jr. (Dr. Montiene, Ph.D.), and Michael Long; his brother Steven Long and sister Patricia Shanks; his grandchildren: Catherine Stiles, Joshua Stiles, Madison Long, Parker Long, Tyler Long, Reagan Long, Gilbert Lietz, Matthew Lietz, and Sabrina Lietz; and his great-grandchildren: Addison Stiles, Wyatt Stiles, Isabella Louis, Theodore Louis, Porter Long, Harvey Long, Sierra, Skylar, Faith, AJ Lietz, Mariah Lietz, Christian Lietz, Krya Lietz, and Brayden Lietz. He also leaves behind many other loving family members and cherished friends.
Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Martha Jane Long, and his brother Robert Long.

A graveside service with Military Honors and Masonic Rites will be held on June 6, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Winfield Veterans Cemetery, 1208 N. College St., Winfield, Kansas.

In honor of Ronald's giving spirit and love for his fellow servicemen and children, memorial donations may be made to the Shriner's Children's Hospital, 2401 Gillham Rd., Kansas City, MO 64108, or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.

Ronald Eugene Long lived a life of purpose, service, and unwavering love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.