Willard M Long III

Born in Bonham, Texas, to Willard Long II and Marjorie Long, Bill spent much of his childhood moving due to his father’s service in the United States Air Force. He attended high school in Florida and later the University of Dayton in Ohio. He built a career as an oil and gas engineer before retiring at age 70.

Bill met his beloved wife, Brenda Rose Kessen, while they were working together at a restaurant during his college years. He was the first man Brenda ever dated. Though life initially took them in different directions, they remained friends. After moving to California, Bill eventually proposed through a letter, and Brenda accepted. Together, they raised their three children and later made Houston their home.

Bill’s greatest passion beyond family was community theater. In 1989, he founded Cast Theatrical Company in Rosenberg, Texas, dedicating more than 30 years to directing, designing, and building sets. Through theater, he created lasting friendships and touched countless lives.

A true Renaissance man, Bill loved building, gardening, and working with his hands. He was known for his intelligence, strong work ethic, resourcefulness, determination, and distinctive sense of humor. He had a curious mind and a talent for figuring things out, believing in the importance of being capable and taking care of one’s responsibilities.

He is survived by his daughters, Dawn Fadri and her husband, Edison, and Rebecca Weaver and her husband, Aaron; and his son, David Long.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Brenda Rose Long; his parents, Willard Long II and Marjorie Long; his brothers, Jerry and Ted; and his sister, Vicki.

Bill will be remembered for his intelligence, love of family, many talents, humor, and the lasting theater community he built.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Bill’s memory to Cast Theatrical Company, the organization he founded and cherished.

Memorial donations may be made at:

https://casttheatrical.com/donate