Richard L. Long, a cherished father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2026, at the age of 97. Born on July 11, 1929, in Cleo Springs, OK to Frank and Laura (Camp) Long, Richard lived a full and adventurous life, touching the hearts of many along the way.

His early years were spent in various places before the family settled in Dodge City. He was a graduate of Dodge City High School, A proud veteran, Richard served honorably in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. His dedication to his country was just one of the many facets of his remarkable character. Richard was united in marriage to Gwendolyn Moore on November 11, 1951 in Cimarron. Following their marriage, the couple lived in Little Creek, Norfolk, Virginia while Richard completed his military training and service.

After his honorable discharge, they moved back to Dodge City. Richard went to work as a welder at WW Manufacturing. He later farmed for a time and then went back to WW Manufacturing until his retirement. As a skilled welder and craftsman, he built not only structures and creations but also lasting relationships with family and friends who admired his talent and work ethic. Beyond his professional skills, Richard was a man of joy and spirit. His love for square dancing with Gwen, being a part of 4-H with his sons, brought laughter and enjoyment into his life.

Richard is survived by his two beloved sons, Craig Long and wife Sandy of Milford and Kyle Long and wife Denise of Great Bend; two grandsons, Mike Long and Tyler Long; two great grandchildren, Mason Long (Macie Schamber) and Hayden Long; a sister, Donna Mead of Woodward, Oklahoma; brother-in-law Jack Denton of Dodge City; and many nieces and nephews, who carry forward his legacy of love and laughter. He is preceded in death by his wife, Gwen; his parents; three sons, Brentley, Klayton, and Klinton; sisters, Loretta Webster and Bonnie Bohannon; and sisters-in-law, Glennys Chalkley, Glatha Denton, and Gyra Miller. 

Funeral service for Richard will take place at Swaim Funeral Chapel, Dodge City on Monday, September 28, 2026 at 10:30 A.M. Friends and family will gather for visitation on Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 1:00 to 6:00 PM. A burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Dodge City with military honors by the US Navy Funeral Detail and the Southwest Kansas Veterans Funeral Honors. We would like to acknowledge the staff, nurses and residents of the Kansas Soldiers Home for the past two years of joy and care they gave him. Memorials are suggested to the Halsey Hall Activity Fund for the residents. Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guestbook at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.