Keith Murray Long, 71
June 24, 1954 – January 4, 2026
Keith Murray Long, age 71, departed this earthly life on Sunday morning, January 4, 2026, and entered into his Heavenly home at Magnolia Hospital in Corinth, Mississippi, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family.
Funeral services honoring the life of Mr. Keith will be held at 2 PM on Friday, January 9, 2026, in the Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral Home, with visitation from 12 Noon until the time of service. Bro. Robert Buse will officiate. Burial will follow in Oakland Baptist Church Cemetery, with no graveside service.
Born on June 24, 1954, in Houston, Mississippi, Mr. Keith was the son of Jane Maxine Clark Long and the late James Long. He was a graduate of Houston High School and continued his education at Itawamba Community College before proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, Mr. Keith returned home and devoted more than twenty years of hard work to City Concrete in Memphis, Tennessee, until his retirement.
On October 18, 1986, he married the love of his life, Mrs. Barbara Green Long, who survives. Together, they built a life rooted in love, laughter, and unwavering devotion—raising their family, sharing countless memories, and cherishing each day they were given.
A faithful Christian and member of Oakland Baptist Church, Mr. Keith will be remembered most for his deep love for his family and his appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. He found joy working in his shop, tinkering with small engines and various projects, often passing along his knowledge and skills to his children. He enjoyed fishing whenever time allowed, but nothing brought him greater happiness than being surrounded by his grandchildren, whom he loved beyond measure.
Mr. Keith’s home was always a welcoming place—a gathering spot for family and friends alike. His door was always open, and those who entered were often greeted with his familiar and beloved question, “Would you like an apple or an orange?” That small, thoughtful gesture became one of his trademarks and perfectly reflected the kind of man he was—generous, hospitable, and always willing to share whatever he had with anyone who needed it.
Never one to meet a stranger, Mr. Keith had a servant’s heart and a helping hand for all. He lived his life with kindness, humility, and quiet strength, leaving an imprint on the hearts of many. Though he will be deeply missed, the legacy of love, generosity, and faith that Mr. Keith leaves behind will continue to live on through his family and all those whose lives were better for having known him.
In addition to his mother, Mrs. Maxine, and his wife, Mrs. Barbara, his legacy will continue to live on through his stepsons, Eric Palmer (Celia), and Justin Palmer (Heather), his brothers, Mike Long and Mark Long, his grandchildren, Matt Palmer (Ginia), Tyler Palmer (Olivia), and Camden Palmer, and his great grandchildren, Zayne, Beck, and Layton Palmer, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends.
He was also preceded in death by his father, Mr. James, and brother, Philip Long.
Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
~
Visitation
Friday
January 9, 2026
12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral
~
Funeral Service
Friday
January 9, 2026
2:00 PM
Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral
