Raymond Long

Raymond Long passed away unexpectedly on August 18, 2023. He was born on March 3, 1956, in Columbia, SC and is the son of Elbina Rowe and L.J. Long.

His military service exemplified his commitment to something greater than himself. Ray proudly served in the United States Air Force where he met his loving wife, Cara, while stationed in the Philippines, sharing a love for powerlifting. Cara and Ray were married on November 7, 1986, in Colorado Springs, CO. In 1988, they relocated to Hill Air Force Base where Ray retired from the Air Force after 20 years of service.

Nationally and internationally ranked in powerlifting, Ray demonstrated discipline and determination in achieving his goals. He also had a fervent love for sports and served as a referee for many different sports throughout his life.

Ray was goal oriented and driven in all aspects of his life. He completed his Bachelor’s Degree from Weber State University in just 18 months and later obtained a Master’s degree from Utah State University.

Following his retirement from the military, Ray began his career as an educator, he was a teacher at Roy High School, principal at Fremont High School, Bonneville High School and Wahlquist Jr. High. He was also the defensive coordinator for Morgan High School and Roy High School football teams. His passion for teaching and coaching led him to serve as the Director of Career and Technical Education for Weber School District, serving an incredible 23 years in education. Ray’s life was a testament to the transformative power of education and his unwavering commitment to shaping the lives of countless students. Among Ray’s proudest accomplishments was being awarded the Huntsman Award for Excellence in Education in 2011 – a testament to his outstanding leadership qualities and unwavering dedication to educational excellence.

One of the most remarkable qualities about Ray was his positive and cheerful disposition. Always happy and smiling, he had an infectious personality that made him one of the most pleasant people to be around. Whether it was in the classroom or on the sidelines of a sports event, Ray’s enthusiasm touched the lives of everyone he encountered.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Ray found joy in various hobbies and interests. He loved anything to do with the outdoors. With his family by his side, they had many adventures camping, fishing, mountain biking, snowboarding and enjoying walks together.

Survived by his beloved wife Cara; their cherished children RaeMonique Long, Caray Long (Chris Carpenter); Simone (Chase) White; Sean (Whitney) Long; eight grandchildren: Trey, Zion, Irie, and Izzy White; Jayce Brown, Angel, Janya and Kalee Bray. Also survived by his Mother-in-law Carol Starzl, siblings: Larry (Sandra) Long, James (JoAnn) Long, Rosemary Glenn, brothers-in-law Robert Johnson and Terry (Teddy) Starzl, nieces and nephews James (Teresa) Rowe Janet Rowe, Christina (Lucas) da Silva, Joseph (Julia) Starzl, and TJ (Becca) Starzl, among many other loved ones. nieces and nephews

Preceded in death by his parents, siblings Wanda Johnson, Bernard Long and sister-in-law Florine Rowe.

Raymond Long leaves behind a profound impact on the educational community and the lives of those he touched. His dedication to teaching and coaching will continue to inspire generations to come. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 24, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at Lindquist’s Layton Mortuary, 1867 N. Fairfield Road. Friends may visit with family on Wednesday from 5 to 8 p.m. and Thursday from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. at the mortuary.

Interment, Utah Veterans Cemetery and Memorial Park, 17111 1700 W, Bluffdale, Utah.

Funeral services will be live-streamed and may be viewed at www.lindquistmortuary.com by scrolling to the bottom of Ray’s obituary page.

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