Richard Allen Long II

Richard Allen Long II “Rich”, age 69, passed away on October 14, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona. Born on January 30, 1956, in Tacoma, Washington, Rich lived a vibrant life defined by service, faith, adventure, and love for his family.

A proud graduate of Federal Way High School’s Class of 1974, Rich embarked on a path of service early in life by enlisting in the United States Air Force. He served honorably for four years at Loring Air Force Base in Maine. His time in the military laid the groundwork for a lifetime devoted to helping others.

After completing his service, Rich pursued his calling to care for others by founding Vision House Family Group Home. For 35 years, he owned and operated this home for individuals with disabilities, dedicating himself to creating a compassionate and supportive environment. His work left an enduring legacy of dignity and care for those he served.

Rich’s deep faith was the cornerstone of his life. As an active member of CCV Church in Verrado (Buckeye), Arizona, he embraced every opportunity to serve—greeting newcomers with warmth, leading baptisms with joy, teaching and mentoring youth of all ages, coaching youth sports with enthusiasm, and opening his home for Bible study groups. His spiritual leadership was a guiding light to many within the church community. Prior to retiring to Arizona, he had these same devotions to his church family in western Washington at LifeWay Church and Soundside Church.

His commitment to service extended across borders through more than two decades of mission work. Rich participated in mission trips throughout the United States and around the world—including Russia, the Bahamas, Poland, Mexico, Indonesia, Hungary, Singapore—bringing compassion and hope wherever he went.

Rich had a natural gift for mentorship and found great joy in coaching children in baseball, football and basketball. Whether guiding his own children or grandchildren on the court or field—or encouraging others through life’s challenges—he offered wisdom with generosity and heart.

An avid backpacker with a love for nature’s beauty, Rich explored the wilderness of Washington State and even briefly ran a business leading guided tours through its rugged landscapes. His adventurous spirit also took him across the globe on leisure travels to Italy, Belize, Aruba, Israel, Curacao, Germany, Madrid, Australia, New Zealand, St. Kitts, St. Thomas, Turkey, Slovenia, Slovakia, Hungary, Prague (Czech Republic), Croatia, Switzerland, Sweden, London (UK), Austria, Denmark—and back again to Mexico. Whether organizing these trips for church groups or sharing them with friends and family members alike—Rich delighted in every journey.

He brought that same zest into the kitchen as well. A true foodie with a particular fondness for seafood—always opting for what he called the “monster platter”—Rich also enjoyed recreating international dishes at home after observing local chefs during his travels abroad. From grilling at home to preparing signature meals that gathered loved ones around the table—his culinary creations were always made with heart.

Above all else was Rich’s devotion to family. He is survived by his beloved wife Peggy (Mineard) Long; his children Richard Allen Long III “Allen” (son), Brian Jackson (son), Caren (Long) Yanez (daughter), Scott Jackson (son), Jennifer Perry (daughter), and Shelby Wilson (daughter); his grandchildren Alex Yanez, Lucas Yanez, William Jackson, Ana Yanez, David Jackson, Allissa Perry, Finn Khokhlov, Izabella Perry, Leah Khokhlov, Pollyanna Jackson and Sunny Jackson and his great-grandson Alejandro Yanez. He is also survived by his sister Anita (Long) Jones and his Aunt Reta Carney.

He was preceded in death by his parents Richard Long Sr. and Iris (Loghry) Long; sisters Vickie Long and Teri (Long) Campbell; and granddaughter Gracie Long.

Those who knew Rich will remember him as a loving husband and father; a devoted grandfather and great-grandfather; a loyal brother; a faithful servant of God; an inspiring coach; an intrepid traveler; a joyful cook; a generous mentor—and above all—a man whose quick wit could light up any room. True to form he often said: “If it’s funny—say it!”

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 5, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Christ Church of the Valley (CCV), located at 20575 W Indian School Rd., Buckeye AZ 85396. Attire is casual—Rich wore shorts year-round! Guests are encouraged to wear orange—his favorite color—as a tribute to his vibrant personality. We will attempt to stream his service via his Facebook for those worldwide that loved and cared for him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Eternal Anchor—a cause close to Rich's heart due to its mission supporting individuals with disabilities. By using the link below you will be able to specifically donate in Rich’s honor to the program that meant the most to him.

https://eternalanchor-bloom.kindful.com/?campaign=1385962

May Mr. Richard Allen "Rich" Long II’s memory continue to inspire lives rooted in faith-filled service—and may laughter always follow those who carry forward his legacy.