Kathryn Long's Obituary
Kathryn Long, age 90, a former resident of Coffeyville, Kansas passed away Thursday, December 16, 2010 at the Golden Living Center in Neodesha, Kansas. She was born on September 25, 1920 in Hutchinson, Kansas the daughter of Russell and Lavinia (Barton) Lawrence.
She enjoyed a childhood in Hutchinson being raised by her father and her two older sisters, Ruth and Elinor. During her youth she developed a love of music and it was a central interest throughout her life. She particularly enjoyed the hymns of the United Methodist church and was expert on the lives and accomplishments of the Wesley Brothers, Charles and John.
Following her graduation from Hutchinson High School she attended Baker University and earned a bachelor’s degree in Music Education. During her time at Baker, she met Clifford Long and following his induction into the U.S. Army, they were married on August 21, 1942 in Cheyenne Wyoming, (Ft Francis E. Warren). After Clifford’s discharge from the Army they returned to Kansas so he could pursue his career in education and coaching. They eventually spent many happy years in Coffeyville and later Pittsburg where Kathryn devoted her energies toward providing a warm and loving home-life. She prided herself on her organizational skills, fostering friendships and being engaged in the community life of southeastern Kansas.
Kathryn was extremely proud of her children and encouraged them to excel in their chosen professions. As a mother she set high standards for herself and her family and her competitive nature was a positive influence on those who knew her. Throughout her life she demonstrated to all a love of her home state, Kansas and never tired of speaking about “The Sunflower Stateâ€.
She served as an officer in many organizations – to include her church where she worked as an advisor toward the revision of the Methodist hymnal. In addition, her deep interest in the arts and education lead her to serve on many councils, boards and committees that advanced education in general and music education specifically.
Both Kathryn and Clifford were devoted to the ideals of Rotary and she was keenly involved in the organization and epitomized the “service above self†motto that is a keystone to Rotary. That service extended into working with various PTA’s, the First United Methodist Church, musical organizations, social service groups and various colleges and universities.
Educating others about the power of music was another passion that Kathryn maintained throughout her life. Her joy of music was obvious and she tirelessly studied, and enjoyed the influence of music whether as a performer, a director, a mentor, or an arranger.
Prior to her retirement, she worked as a teacher and librarian for College High School (Pittsburg KS) and then Pittsburg High School. She was a member and choir director for the First Methodist Church in Coffeyville. Kathryn was also a member of PEO and the Matinee Musical in Coffeyville.
She is survived by two sons Kent Long of Branson, Missouri and Kurt Long of Edna, Kansas, two granddaughters, one grandson and three great grandchildren.
Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Clifford, one daughter Celia Harris and two sisters Ruth Dick and Elinor Grove.
Cremation was requested. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2011, 2PM at Countryside Funeral Home. Inurnment will be at Fairview Cemetery in Coffeyville, Kansas. Her family suggests memorials to Fredonia Arts Council or the Salvation Army and may be left with the funeral home. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.countrysidefh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home, P.O. Box 247, 420 S. 20th St., Fredonia, Kansas.
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