Robert J. Long Obituary

Robert J. Long attended East Union High School in Afton, IA. View the obituary, post a memory, or share a photo about Robert J. Long.

Graduation Year	Class of 1968
Date of Passing	Nov 10, 2001
About	Robert grew up on a farm near Shannon City, where he attended grade school. He was active in and enjoyed playing in the band. The music department actually had to place a large box under his feet in order for Robert to play the tuba. Another interest of his was the 4-H Club. His diligent work in that organization even awarded him a trip to Washington, D.C. Robert was person who followed his dreams in life. After graduation from East Union in 1968, Robert attended Central College in Pella, majoring in social work. Part of his training included a semester of social work in an inner city slum in Chicago. In 1972, Robert married but later divorced. That union produced a son, Jeffery. In 1981, Robert graduated from New Brunswick Seminary in New Jersey with a MDIV. He interned at the Presbyterian Hospital in Philadelphia, as a clinical pastor and was a parish assistant at the Pathway School. On November 21, 1982, Robert was ordained as a minister in the UCC. His first call was at St. Paul's United Church of Christ. After serving a couple of churches as pastor, Robert entered a new phase of ministry, as a supply pastor to over 20 churches. Having fulfilled his dream of living in urban areas, Robert continued in his love of song and music. In addition, Robert was an avid reader. In his home, Robert had stacks, and shelves, and boxes, and piles of books. His thirst for knowledge directed him back to school. In May 1999, he received a dual master's degree in Social Work, and Law and Social Policy from Bryn Mawr College. He had been employed at Bryn Mawr and was also working toward his Doctorate degree. Robert was attending a conference in Washington, D.C. on September 11, 2001, when the terrorist bombing on the Pentagon occurred. Just a few weeks later, he became ill with a respiratory infection and entered the hospital on October 20. He lost his battle with Guillian Barre Syndrome and left this life on November 10, 2001. A service of Celebration for the life of Robert John Long was held on November 17, 2001 at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Philadelphia. Robert has a host of Professional and Research experience to his name.