LeRay (Ray) Long, age 79, passed away December 13, 2017 after a long illness. To welcome him home are his parents Francis and Mildred Long, his sister Mary and brother-in-law Jim Kelly. He will suffer no more in the arms of our Lord.

A Kansas City native, Ray was a Navy veteran serving abroad an aircraft carrier. Returning home, he worked for the Hickman Mills School District for 25 years; worked for the Oak Tree Square Apartments for 14 years. After retiring to Springfield, MO, Ray enjoyed working at the 166 Auto Auction, until health prevented him from working.

Our beloved Ray is survived by his wife Debbie, aunt Jean West, brother-in-law Randall Woods, sister-in-laws Kristi Woods, Cindy Ayres, Lareeca Mayhan, nieces and nephews: Madison Kelley, Josh Weislocher, April Ferris, Mindy Ayres, Chad Ayres and 7 great-nieces and nephews.

My dear husband, your wonderful smile, your eyes, your booming voice and caring soul will be greatly missed. I love you.

Services will be held at the Missouri Veteran's Cemetery, 5201 S. Southwood, Springfield MO, Thursday December 21, at 12 p.m. under the direction of Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home.