Linda S. Long

Linda S. Long, a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and compassionate friend, left this world peacefully on June 5, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on March 13, 1951, in Pekin, Illinois, Linda was the beloved daughter of Eugene and Lavanchalee Snyder, who have predeceased her along with her brothers, Sonny and Jay. Her life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and community. Linda's journey began in the small town of Pekin, where she graduated from Pekin High School in 1969. She carried her Midwestern values with her throughout her life, manifesting them in her work as a dedicated secretary at the Peoria Police Department and later as an Executive Secretary at Mercy Hospital, where she gracefully retired after years of service. Her career was marked by professionalism and an unwavering commitment to helping others. In 1987, Linda married the love of her life, Gary Long, on a beautiful summer day in Elburn, Illinois. Together, they built a marriage grounded in faith and love, sharing 38 wonderful years together while nurturing their son, Travis Long. Linda and Gary were active members of various churches, including Grace Lutheran, Faith Assembly, Cathedral of Praise, Legacy Church, and Open Door, where their spiritual journey blossomed. Linda's faith was the cornerstone of her life. An active member of Open Door Church in Burleson, Texas, and an Elder at Legacy Church in New Braunfels, Texas, she dedicated her life to serving others. Her work with Strategic Alliance Ministries was particularly close to her heart, as she helped build homes for the homeless, offering hope and stability to those in need. Her passion extended beyond her faith. Linda was a fervent prayer warrior, always ready to offer a prayer or a kind word to anyone she met. She loved reading her Bible, playing solitaire, doing word searches, and spending time with her beloved dogs and horse. Her love for animals was matched only by her love for mission work, which took her to China once and Mexico numerous times, spreading compassion and kindness wherever she went. Linda's heart was open to all, and she had a unique ability to make people see their worth. Her warmth and acceptance left a lasting impact on everyone she encountered. Family was everything to Linda, and she cherished every moment spent with her loved ones. She leaves behind her devoted husband, Gary; her son, Travis, and his partner, Melissa Contreras; her sisters, Joanne Bowen and Dianna Tennis; and her two adored grandchildren Catalina and Penelope. Linda also leaves behind her extended family, including Sarah and Riley Lindaman, and her dear friends, Angie and Nina Burns, and Betty Lyman, whose lives were enriched by her presence. A service to celebrate Linda's remarkable life will be held at 11:00 AM on June 27, 2026, at Legacy Church, located at 2002 Spur Street, New Braunfels, Texas 78130. In honoring Linda's legacy, let us remember the love, faith, and kindness she shared with the world. She will be profoundly missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.