Fredrick William Long, beloved father, grandfather, uncle, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2026, at the age of 87. Family will host a visitation on Monday, May 18, from 6:00-8:00 pm at Heartland Funeral Home in Early. Services will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, May 19 in the Heartland Funeral Home Chapel.
Born on December 9, 1938, in Talco, Tx., Fred moved with his family to Mineral Wells, Tx. at the age of two. He graduated from Mineral Wells High School in 1957. Fred’s early work experiences included livestock penning and loading at auctions, lifeguarding, bartending, moving services, publication distribution, and ditch digging.
Fredrick William Long answered the call to serve his country with honor, courage, and unwavering dedication. He proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1959 to 1968. Including service with the Texas National Guard, completing more than ten years of military service. He earned credits from Arlington State College and Texas Christian University before graduating from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy.
Fred lived a life marked by hard work, quiet strength, generosity, and a deep love for his family. He was known for his steady presence and kind heart. Those who knew him will remember his sense of humor, wisdom, and the lasting impact he made on the people around him.
Fred’s professional career was primarily based in Brownwood, Texas, though he also provided pharmacy services in Abilene, Austin, Ballinger, Brady, Goldthwaite, Cedar Park, San Saba, Rising Star, and Wichita Falls. He took great pride in providing for those he loved.
Outside of work, Fred enjoyed his years as a Boy Scout and Explorer Scout and later served as a Scout Leader. He was a past secretary of the Early Lions Club and a member of Early First Baptist Church. His favorite recreational pursuits centered around the water and outdoors, especially camping, scuba diving, boating, water skiing, swimming, gardening, and, most of all, fishing.
He is survived by his two sons, Phillip Blaine Long and friend Patricia Caudill and William (Bill) Dean Long and wife Mhina; stepdaughter, Melissa Eggar; nine grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; brother, Leon Dupree Long and wife Neva; brother-in-law, Joe Scharnberg; daughters-in-law, Rhonda Greer Long and Kyla Branshaw Long Bain; and many extended family members and dear friends who will cherish his memory forever.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lorena and V.A. Long; older brother, Donald Long and wife Bobbie; sisters, Dorothy Ann Sprinkle and husband Doyle, and Mary Jane Scharnberg; daughter-in-law, Debbie Cupples; and youngest son, Mark David Long and wife Donella Taylor Long.
Fredrick William Long will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, resilience, and compassion will live on through the lives he touched.
Online condolences, memories and tributes can be made to the family at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net
