Andrew Ryan Long

On Sunday, July 25, 2021, Andrew Ryan ‘Andy’ Long, an exceptional human being, dedicated public servant, and esteemed chairman of the Long Family Activities Committee, passed away at age 39. Andy was born on January 18, 1982, in Evansville, IN, to Don and Donna (Lahay) Long. The eldest of three sons, Andy was the first member of the Long family to attend college, and proudly earned his bachelor’s degree in biology and psychology from Indiana University in 2005. Shortly after, he began a distinguished 15 year career in public service in Dubois County, IN. Through his position in Child Protective Services, and later the Juvenile Probation department, Andy was able to help countless at-risk youths turn their lives around, and he often found himself being greeted by them years later, eager to show their accomplishments and gratitude. Due to his overwhelming abilities in his work, he was highly regarded amongst his peers in county government, which led to his being a two time nominee and 2013 winner of the Mental Health Citizen of the Year, an award given for excellence in working with persons who suffer from mental health disorders. Despite his professional accolades, Andy would cite his greatest and most unlikely achievement as managing to charm Tracy Loveless, of Evansville, IN, to the point of becoming his long term partner. During their 10 year relationship, Andy helped Tracy navigate raising her two daughters, Megan and Leah, through their teenage and high school years, developing a strong bond with them. Andy was a complex and thoughtful person who loved simple things deeply. He lived to gather friends and family around a table and let conversation and good drink flow- his natural penchant for organization often effortlessly turning what could otherwise be a dull, lonely evening into a rowdy night of belly laughs, camaraderie, and mysterious bruises to discover the next day. Never one to be the center of attention, Andy was at his happiest with friends and family surrounding him, content and having a great time. Andy’s love for gatherings lent itself to an avid interest in music, poker, and sports. As a guitarist, Andy found kindred spirits and made lifelong friends with his band Classic Smack, whose single legendary recording is still highly sought after by those possessed of fine musical taste. In poker, Andy dominated the kitchen table, often winning exorbitant sums in the tens of dollars. Andy was able to combine his love of friendly competition with his interest in sports via fantasy football, where his shrewd play and excellent decision making made him a league champion many times over- a feat which he never passed the opportunity to remind his fellow competitors of. Even with his disparate interests. In all aspects of his life, Andy was known as a welcoming, friendly face, eager to greet anyone with a smile and a frosty beverage. Andy is survived by his long term partner, Tracy Loveless; her two daughters, Megan and Leah, whom he loved deeply; his mother, Donna; his father, Don; his brothers, Brad and Clayton, and several aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends, who will all sorely miss his presence, but continue to keep his memory alive anytime they find a table to gather around. Friends may visit Saturday, July 31, 2021 from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Alexander Funeral Home Newburgh Chapel. A short prayer service will be Saturday at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you please consider contributing to the charity closest to your heart in his name.