Edwin "Ed" Long

October 12, 2017

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Edwin “Ed” Long, 83, was born in Garber, OK, to Lloyd and Blanch Long in 1934 and passed away on October 12, 2017. He graduated from Oklahoma A&M with a degree in agriculture education in 1956. Following his graduation, he returned to Garber as a partner with his father and brother in several enterprises, including Long’s John Deere, wheat farming, and Polled Hereford breeding operations. In addition to Ed’s distinguished business career, he also had a distinguished service record, including service on the Oklahoma Wheat Commission, Rotary Club International, Oklahoma A&M Colleges Board of Regents, including a term as chair, and two terms in the Oklahoma State Senate, representing District 19. Ed was also well known and respected as a pioneer in the development of early childhood education in the State of Oklahoma and was also extensively involved in passing legislation that created Oklahoma’s pre-K program, which is recognized as one of the best programs throughout the country. Further, he helped found the Rise School in Stillwater, which serves children with developmental disabilities; and he was recognized earlier this year by the World Autism and Savant Foundation. Following retirement Ed moved to Stillwater where he became very active within the community and the First United Methodist Church. Some of his other activities included Habitat for Humanity, Stillwater Frontier Rotary Club, and Caring Communities. In addition, he went on countless mission trips, especially to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Ed is survived by his wife, Gladeen Burris Allred and her two sons, Lance and Brett, as well as his four children: Donna (Bruce) Lawrence, Steve (D’Lorah), David, and Stacia (Pete) Glavas. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and several siblings as well as by a number of nieces and nephews.