Olen Ray Long died on October16th, 2023. Olen was born in Ryan, Oklahoma on June 17th, 1949. The oldest of three sons, he grew up in Denison, Texas and was a member of the Denison High School Class of 1967. Olen had a strong desire to serve and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, before being honorably discharged for medical reasons. He married his wife, Linda Kay Hall, on December 5th, 1970. They both attended and graduated from Texas A&M University, where Olen studied Mechanical Engineering.
Linda and Olen moved to Celina in 1976, where Olen’s engineering career took him from Haliburton to the United States Air Force and finally to his own environmental engineering company. He loved Celina and continued his dedication to service as a member of the School Board, the City Council, Quarterback Club President, and Mayor of Celina. He was also involved in Boy Scouts of America, where he founded Troop 296 in Celina and helped his sons and many others earn the Eagle Scout Award. He was a lifelong supporter of Scouting, recently earning the Silver Beaver Award and Vigil Honor for his years of service.
During his free time, Olen enjoyed farming, woodworking, watching westerns and telling stories. He also loved spending time with his grandchildren, of whom he was very proud.
Olen is preceded in death by Linda, his wife of 46 years, parents Eldon and Mary (Pritchard) Long, his brothers David Long and Tony Long, and his grandson Lawson Long. Olen is survived by his sons and their families: Ryan and Caroline (Andrew and Hannah), Derek and Carlen (Tully and Alexander), and Jason and Haley (Ava, Scarlett, and Harper).
Services will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Celina (12465 FM 428, Celina, Texas) on Monday, October 23rd at 10am. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Grace Bridge (9300 Wade Boulevard, Suite 330, Frisco, Texas 75035 or https://www.gracebridge.us).