Joseph Melton "Joe" Long, Iii

Joe Long, age 63, of Centerville, passed away peacefully at his home with his wife by his side Sunday, July 26, 2020. Joe was both a loving husband and best friend with his wife, Jean.

Those left to honor Joe’s memory are wife, Jean Long; brother, David Long; children and step-children, Jamie Villarreal & husband, José, Jessie Long, Joseph Long, IV & wife, Gabby, Jake Long, Carmen Vasquez & husband, Anthony, Stephanie Franklin & husband, Glenn, Bradley Turner & Sarah Turner. He is also survived by grandchildren, Jackson, Tristan, Maddie, Kinley, Joseph V, Bella, Coco, Haven, Sam and Arlo; brother-in-law, Eddie Hills & sister-in-law, Kate Fontenot.

Joe was preceded in death by father, Joseph Long, Jr.; mother, Bernadean Long; sisters, Jodine Oswald & Vella Jean Malek and wife, Margaret Long, as well as many friends.

Joseph Melton Long, III was born August 28, 1956 in Houston, Texas to parents, Joseph, Jr. & Bernadean (Stuart) Long. He was raised in Houston and grew up playing baseball and loving horses. He instilled his love of the game in future generations as a softball coach. Through the years Joe coached many young women and became a mentor and role model to them all. Joe was also active in his church and was the leader of Royal Rangers for many years. He enjoyed fishing, any type of good music and was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan.

Joe was a hard worker--an expert in carpentry, construction and painting. He had also worked in the oil industry for decades and was a “heck of a hand.” Although Joe was dedicated to his work, he also loved life and lived it to the fullest and was always quick to laugh. He was a peacemaker and generous to a fault. Joe genuinely cared about everyone in his life, both friends and family.

Graveside services for Joe will be held 10 A.M., Friday, July 31, 2020 at Parker Cemetery in Houston County, Texas. Greg Long will officiate the service. The Long family will receive friends from 9 A.M. to 10 A.M. at the cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas.