Donald Stephen Long

Donald Long, beloved husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, and proud U.S. Air Force veteran, passed away on September 5, 2025, at the age of 66.

Donald served his country with honor and dedication as a Senior Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force from 1978 until his retirement in 2001. He continued to serve his country as a civil servant for the United States Army until his retirement in 2024. His leadership, commitment, and loyalty to his fellow service members were a source of pride throughout his life.

Above all, Donald loved the Lord and devoted his life to living by the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. He was a faithful member of Lindsay Lane Baptist Church, where he found fellowship, strength, and joy in serving alongside his church family.

He was a devoted husband, first to his late wife, Ursula, and later to his loving wife, Lora, with whom he shared many joyful years.

Donald is survived by his wife, Lora; his son, Daniel Long (Sara); his daughter, Stephanie Chrisley (Steven); his stepdaughters, Lindsey Evans and Jennifer McJunkins; and his five cherished grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Ursula Long (Heinrich) and his parents Owis Burniss Long and Glenda Mae Ramsey (Gash).

Donald will be remembered for his faith, kindness, generosity, sense of humor, and deep love for family and country. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the family who will miss him dearly.

A celebration of Donald’s life will be held at Lindsay Lane Baptist Church in Athens on Thursday, September 11, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

The graveside service with military honors will follow at Nashville National Cemetery, 1420 Gallatin Pike S, Madison, TN 37115, on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Lindsay Lane Baptist Church in his memory.