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Crowder Cemetery

Courtesy of Bishop Funeral Home
Submitted by: Carol Spear Rice

Ernest Eugene "Gene" Long, 66, of McAlester, Oklahoma passed away on December 27, 2024 at his home in McAlester surrounded by his family. Family will greet friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 3, 2025 at Bishop Funeral Service and Crematory. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at Bishop Chapel of Memories with Randy Workman officiating. Burial will follow at Crowder Cemetery in Crowder. Honors will be provided by the Department of Corrections Honors Team. Pallbearers will be Christopher Tadlock, Eric Long, Cody Long, Ryan Long, Gage Long, Patrick Hilliard, and Zach Cook. Honorary pallbearers will be Oklahoma State Prison Correctional Officers: Timothy Dix, Mike Martin, Mark Silverthorn, Jared McCall, Brian Holden, and Virgil Young. Gene was born on September 26, 1958, in the beautiful island territory of Agana Heights, Guam to Estes Long and Jenny (Kobes) Long. Gene's early years were spent traveling around the United States while his father was active-duty Air Force. He graduated from McAlester High School in 1976. He continued his education at Eastern State College, where he earned an Associate's Degree. Gene embarked on a distinguished career as a correctional officer at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester. For over 28 years, he served with honor and integrity, earning the respect of his colleagues and those he supervised. Even after retiring from the OSP, his dedication to service led him to return to work as an officer, a role he embraced with his characteristic sense of duty. Beyond his professional life, Gene was a cherished figure in his community, embodying the spirit of giving as the town's Santa Claus for over 32 years. His portrayal of Santa brought joy and wonder to countless children, a role he cherished deeply. Gene's love for his role as Santa was paralleled only by the love he had for his grandchildren, with whom he enjoyed spending time and creating lasting memories. Gene's life was further enriched when he met his beloved spouse, Linda Merrick, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on February 17, 2007. Those who knew Gene will remember him as a man of great character, a loving husband, a devoted family man, and a steadfast friend. His presence was a source of stability and warmth, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known him. Gene is survived by wife, Linda Merrick of the home; daughters, Jaime Rowell and husband, Charles of Crowder, Casey Smith and husband, Derrick of McAlester, Kristy Karr of Blanchard, Desiree Merrick of McAlester, Madi Merrick of McAlester; sons, Jonathan Merrick of McAlester, Noah Rey Merrick of McAlester, Jason Merrick of Oklahoma City; grandchildren, Maverick Rowell, Austin Rowell, Dean Smith, Olivia Smith, Ray Ray Alvarado, Christian Kyle Karr, Robyn Leigh Yeargin, Keeley Merrick, NeVan Merrick, Jason Merrick, and Justin Merrick; great-grandchildren, Renessmee Merrick, Addilyn Merrick, Jason Merrick, Sammie Mann, Jonathan Allen Merrick, and Zoe Yeargin; sisters, Catherine Tadlock of McAlester, Edith Smith and husband, Doyle of Indianola; brothers, Steve Long and wife, Cindi of Broken Arrow, Randy Long and wife, Candis of Fulton, Illinois, Larry Long and wife, Delina of McAlester; along with numerous other sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. Gene is preceded in death by his parents, Estes E. Long and Jenny Long-Snider; brother, John Long; brother-in-law, Ed Tadlock; nephews, Bryan Smith, Matthew Smith; and a son, Jonathan Merrick.

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