Morris Augustus Long of Potosi departed this life at his home on Wednesday, May 2, 2018 at the age of eighty-four years, six months and twenty-two days. Morris was born October 10, 1933 in Cadet, Missouri a son of the late Guideon Chadbourne Long, Sr. and Dolly Belle (Morris) Long.
Morris was united in marriage to Opal Wideman on June 22, 1952 in Pocahontas, Arkansas. They were blessed with sixty-five years of marriage and with seven children.
Morris is survived by his dear and loving wife Opal Long of Potosi; two daughters, Peggy Long of Bonne Terre and Paula Williams and husband Roger of Mineral Point; four sons, William “Bill” Morris Long and wife Phyllis of Potosi, Jim Long and wife Carrie of Fort Worth, Texas, Joe Long and wife Paulette of Potosi and Brad Long of Potosi; 15 grandchildren, Shawnee, Chad, Cody, Kellie, Heather, Peyton, Rodney, Ryan, Robbie, A.J., Matt, Kyle, Amy, Hayden and Garrette ; twenty-seven great grandchildren and by many other dear relatives and special friends. In addition to his parents, Morris was also preceded in death by a daughter, Penny Short; three sisters, Becky Laritzen, Nancy Ethier and Rachel Richeson and two brothers, Chadbourne “Chad” Long, Jr. and Charles B. Long.
Morris Long, a man of great stature and values. His love for his wife and family was unending and he always stood ready to help or correct them. A man of strong hands and guns who knew how to use them to correct anyone or to gently guide anyone. Morris had instilled in not only his children and grandchildren but also in many friends and young people who looked up to him, the difference between right and wrong and how to work with great pride. Morris was a man who knew hard labor and was never afraid to work to succeed. He loved his farm and enjoyed his cattle and farming the land with his wife and family. During his years, he owned and operated Phillips 66 service station, was an Auxiliary Police Officer, worked for McDonald Aircraft, Anheuser Busch, Carter Chevrolet, Pea Ridge Iron Ore, Hann Mining and then dedicated many years to the Mining Industries with Gardner Denver and Reid Drilling where he became the go to man and the leader for the companies with many mines.
Morris enjoyed Life to the fullest. He was never short on words and always ready to spend time relaxing on the farm, traveling the area or just spending time with family and friends. For many years Morris was a dedicated Stock Car driver and later enjoyed time with his son as he drove Stock Cars.
Morris was an inspiration to all and will continue guiding all with his many lessons and memories he has given.