Ralph Long

Ralph E. Long, 86, of Carlyle, died Monday, May 24th, 2021, in the comfort of his home.

Ralph was born in St. Elmo on November 12th, 1934, to the late William and Josephine (Lilly) Long. He was married to Inis Alton on July 10th, 1954, in St. Elmo.  Mr. Long worked at McDonald Aircraft in St. Louis for 3 years, and later at Pet Milk in Greenville for 7 years.  Ralph then worked in maintenance for Carlyle Community Unit #1.  He was at Keyesport school for 13 years, then at Carlyle schools for 13 years.  Ralph was a devoted member of the Columbus Baptist Church in Keyesport.  He loved spending time outdoors, whether it was hunting, fishing, or yard work.  Ralph also enjoyed gardening and canning his harvest.

His survivors include his three children, Randy Long (Sheila); Brad Long; and Rhonda Short (John), three grandchildren, Kyle Hessenauer; Tristin Long (Monica); and Justin Knutt; and six great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, James and Jessie Long; and three sisters, Madonna Shane, Joan Jalbert, and Virginia Long. 

A Funeral service will be held at the Columbus Baptist Church at 10:00 A.M. on Friday, May 28, 2021, with Rev. Bruce Sasse, officiating.  Interment will follow at Taylor Cemetery in Pittsburgh.  Visitation will be held at Zieren Funeral Home on Thursday, May 27, from 4:00 - 7:00 P.M. and at Columbus Baptist Church on Friday from 9:00 - 10:00 A.M.  

Expressions of sympathy in memory of Mr. Long are suggested to the Columbus Baptist Church or to Residential Home Health and Hospice.  Memorial donations will be received through Zieren Funeral Home, PO Box 276, Carlyle, IL 62231.  

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