Wilburn Hubert Thomas Long was a modest man, quiet and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew him. He was also a man who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything he undertook. Realistic about life, he was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility. Commitment is a key word that can be used to describe the life of Wilburn Hubert Thomas Long. He was committed to living the life of a good man who was both practical and trustworthy. He was committed to the traditional values that he upheld his entire life. He committed himself to being a hard worker who expected the same effort in return from those around him. Most of all, he was committed to those he knew and loved.
His parents were Marshall DeWitt Long and Alma Marie Long. He had one sister, Mary Lou, and one brother, Marshall DeWitt Jr. who preceded him in death. He was brought up to be self-confident and dependable. These were traits that would serve him well throughout his life.
He graduated from Austin High School in 1945. He enlisted in the Navy shortly after graduation and served from 1945 to 1948 at the end of WWII. He served on the USS Wisconsin, USS Wilkes Barre, and USS Schmitt as a radarman. Through his hard work and dedication, he achieved the rank of Radarman Third Class (RD3). As a literal thinker who possessed a calm exterior and he seemed to enjoy the routines set forth by the military.
On October 11, 1952, Wilburn exchanged wedding vows with Kathlyn Shuffield at the Grace Methodist Church in Austin, Texas. Compassionate and devoted to Kathlyn S. Long, Wilburn held endearing, traditional values about marriage and family life. He took the responsibility of marriage to heart, giving it his total commitment. He was a source of strength to Kathlyn S. Long and used his gifts at nurturing one-on-one relationships, he worked hard to make his family happy.
Wilburn and Kathlyn were blessed with three children, one son, Tom Long; and two daughters, Cindy Casparis and Linda Fragoso. They were also blessed with eleven grandchildren, Matt, Tim, Paul, Adam, Caleb, Casi, Sandra, Amanda, Julie, Katie, Holly and 23 great grandchildren.
His primary occupation was in law enforcement as a Texas Highway Patrolman and Captain of Travis County Sheriff's Department. He worked hard to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done. Later in life he worked in the oil business and retired from Enserch Exploration in 1990.
His favorite hobbies were woodworking and watching grandkids play sports. He enjoyed his many travels on cruise ships and visiting with his family. He was a man who was dedicated and devoted to his faith. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Midland, Texas for 45 years. He was a sympathetic man who valued his beliefs and was willing to work tirelessly for them.
Wilburn passed away on February 14, 2019 in Midland, Texas. He was laid to rest in Resthaven Cemetery in Midland, Texas. In lieu of flowers the family has asked that you donate to a charity of your choice.
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