Merrill Lowell Dean Long, known lovingly as Dad, Grandpa and Pa Pa, of Lewisville, Texas went home to be with the Lord on Friday, October 16, 2026. He was ninety years old and leaves behind a family that was, without question, the great pride and joy of his life.

Lowell was born on February 10, 1936, in Danville, Pennsylvania. He was the son of Clair Wilson Long and Bertha Irene Tietsworth. Throughout his 90 years, Lowell lived a life marked by faith, hard work, adventure, laughter, and an unwavering love for his family. He grew up to become a man of remarkable character, and proudly served his country as a solider in the United States Army from 1954-1956 before going on to find the love of his life, Lyle Long and building a beautiful family. Anyone who knew him could tell you that there was no mistaking the light of the Lord shining within him. He dedicated his professional life to a career in computer technology, and serving those in need.

Lowell had an adventurous spirit and a wonderful sense of humor. He loved fishing, hunting, camping, traveling to Canada, cheering on his beloved Dallas Cowboys, and, most importantly, spending time with his family. His ability to bring laughter into a room and his love for life's adventures created memories that his family will treasure for generations.

Above all, Lowell was a man of unwavering faith and fierce devotion to his family. His love for the Lord was the foundation of his life, and his family was among his greatest earthly treasures. He was a protector, a provider, and a defender of those he loved. He worked hard, made sacrifices, and stood ready to do whatever was necessary to ensure his family was cared for, supported, and protected. His love was more than words; it was demonstrated through his actions, his sacrifices, and his steadfast presence in their lives.

Lowell understood that true strength came from the Lord, and sought to pass that faith on to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Lowell was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Myrna Lyle Long, and his daughter, Valerie Janice Lester.

He is survived by his sons, Mark Long and Eric (Jennifer) Long; his five grandchildren, Tracy (Thomas) Lawles, Garrett (Stephanie) Long, Grayson (Sidney) Long, Sarah (Jake) Tanis, and Dillon Lester; and eight great-grandchildren.

While Lowell’s family will deeply miss his laughter, guidance, and his unwavering presence, they find peace in knowing that his earthly journey has ended and that he is now made whole with the Lord.

His legacy will live on through the generations of his family—in the faith he shared, the love he demonstrated, the sacrifices he made, and the values he instilled in those he held dear.

Lowell’s life was a reminder to trust God above all else, love your family fiercely, stand firm in your convictions, and never lose the joy of living.

As Scripture reminds us:

“We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.”

— 2 Corinthians 5:8 (NIV)

Though Lowell is no longer with us in body, his family takes comfort in knowing he is home with the Lord, reunited with those who have gone before him, and resting in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

Graveside Service

A graveside service is planned for Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Flower Mound Presbyterian Church in Flower Mound, Texas.