Billy Dean Long Jr.

Dean, age 70, was born and raised in Orange, Texas to Thelma Kathleen and Billy Dean Long Sr., and was the second eldest of five children (Sherry, Dean, Dan, Michael, and Kimberly). After serving in the United States Air Force, he returned to marry his high school classmate and dear friend, Patricia Sullivan in December 1974. They had three children, Kelly, Justin, and DeAnna. Dean is preceded in death by his parents Kitty and Billy and his sister Sherry. He is survived by his loving and faithful wife of 49 years Pat, his children- Kelly, Justin, and DeAnna, his grandchildren- Brielle, Kaelan, Jaden, Emma, Allie, Daniel, Olivia, and great-granddaughter Aria and his siblings- Danny, Mike, and Kim. Dean was blessed to have spent his last 2.5 years in Washington, where his sons and grandchildren all lived. Dean in his younger years was well known for his fiery red hair and fiery sense of humor, always making those around him laugh; although his fiery red hair didn't last, his sense of humor endured until the end. Dean was a simple man whose love, faithfulness, and devotion to his family was evident in all he did. While he was forced into early retirement after a work-related injury, he spent his working years at DuPont/Lanxess in Orange, Texas, always providing well for his family. Dean was a devout husband, father, grandfather, and follower of Jesus. Dean and his wife raised their children to continue to serve the Lord in all ways. Their home growing up was often filled with music sheets, singing, and practicing for upcoming church worship specials. Their passion for singing and worship was carried on in their children. Dean loved cars and sports and had a wealth of knowledge in weather, maps, and various trivia. He was an intelligent man, who could partake in small talk in just about any subject. Dean was humble and preferred serving and helping from the background or behind the scenes. His tender and gentle heart was known to those who knew him well. He will be missed greatly. He was last reading the book of Daniel in his Bible leading up to his death, perhaps his favorite story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Dean had a knowledge just as the story tells that the Lord is faithful in all things and is with us even in the fiery furnace. When things are heating up in life, always remember, just as Dean did, there is another in the fire standing with you. God is faithful and fulfills His promises to those who trust in Him. Just as Dean lived his life honoring God despite circumstance, we, his family, believe he would encourage the same to all reading this. Thank you for being the great husband, father, father-in-law, and grandfather you were.

Billy Dean Long Jr.

September 7, 1952 - July 1, 2023