The state of Missouri mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant, Beth Long, who passed away at the age of 76 at her home in Lebanon on Monday, July 1st. Beth Long’s death marks the end of a distinguished career in public service, during which she made significant contributions to her community, county, and state.
Beth Long’s legacy as a politician and community leader is one of remarkable dedication and commitment. Born on April 7th in Lebanon, Missouri, she embarked on a journey of public service that would see her break barriers and set new standards of excellence. A graduate of Drury College, Long was the first woman to be elected to a county office in Laclede County, Missouri, a groundbreaking achievement that paved the way for future generations of women in politics.
Her political career began in earnest when she was elected as the Laclede County Clerk, a position she held from 1983 until 1990. During her tenure, she was known for her meticulous attention to detail and her unwavering commitment to serving the residents of Laclede County. Her leadership and organizational skills earned her widespread respect and recognition.
Beth Long’s service extended beyond her role as county clerk. She was elected to the Missouri House of Representatives, where she served multiple terms with distinction. As a member of the House, Long was a vocal advocate for her constituents, championing policies and legislation that aimed to improve the lives of Missourians. Her tenure in the House was marked by her ability to work across party lines, fostering collaboration and bipartisanship in an often divided political landscape.
Even after leaving the Missouri House of Representatives, Beth Long remained actively engaged in the political arena. She continued to be involved at all levels of the Republican Party, using her experience and influence to mentor and support new leaders. Her dedication to the party and to public service never wavered, and she remained a respected figure in political circles until her passing.
Beth Long’s contributions were not limited to her professional achievements. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, whose family was the center of her life. She is survived by her husband Kent, three daughters—Amie Jackson, Dana Long, and Sara Witt—and five grandchildren, who will carry forward her legacy of service and dedication.
The news of Beth Long’s passing has elicited an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the state. Colleagues, friends, and community members have expressed their sorrow and shared memories of her kindness, leadership, and unyielding commitment to her community. Her death leaves a significant void in the hearts of those who knew her and in the political landscape of Missouri.
The Holman Howe Funeral Home of Lebanon is handling the arrangements for Beth Long’s funeral services. These services will provide an opportunity for the community to come together to honor and celebrate her life and legacy. It is expected that many will gather to pay their respects and to reflect on the lasting impact she made through her decades of public service.
Beth Long’s life is a testament to the power of dedication and perseverance. She faced numerous challenges and broke through many barriers to serve her community and state with distinction. Her story is one of inspiration, illustrating the profound impact that one individual can have through unwavering commitment to public service.
As Missouri reflects on the life and legacy of Beth Long, there is a collective recognition of the values she embodied: integrity, hard work, and a deep sense of duty. Her contributions to Laclede County and the state of Missouri have left an indelible mark, and her memory will continue to inspire future generations of public servants.
In addition to her formal roles, Beth Long was deeply involved in her local community. She participated in numerous civic activities and was a regular presence at community events, always willing to lend a hand or provide support. Her community involvement was driven by a genuine desire to make a difference and to help others, values that she instilled in her children and grandchildren.
Beth Long’s passing also serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of women in politics. As the first woman elected to a county office in Laclede County, she broke new ground and opened doors for other women to follow in her footsteps. Her legacy in this regard is particularly significant, highlighting the ongoing need for gender equality and representation in political offices.
Throughout her life, Beth Long was guided by a strong moral compass and a deep sense of faith. These values informed her approach to public service and her interactions with others. She was known for her compassionate nature and her willingness to listen to and understand the concerns of her constituents. This empathy and understanding were key to her effectiveness as a leader and her ability to build consensus.
The death of Beth Long is not just a loss for her family and close friends, but for the entire state of Missouri. Her work in the Missouri House of Representatives and her ongoing involvement in the Republican Party have left a legacy of service that will be remembered for years to come. Her passing is a poignant reminder of the impact that dedicated public servants can have on their communities and the importance of continuing their work.
As the community comes to terms with the loss of Beth Long, there is a sense of gratitude for all that she accomplished and the many lives she touched. Her story will continue to be told as an example of dedication, perseverance, and the power of public service. In honoring her memory, the community can find inspiration to carry forward her legacy of commitment and service.
Beth Long’s life and career serve as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through dedication and a commitment to serving others. Her work in public office and her ongoing engagement with the Republican Party demonstrate the profound impact that one individual can have. As Missouri mourns her passing, there is also a recognition of the lasting legacy she leaves behind—a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide future generations.
In conclusion, the passing of Beth Long marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to public service. Her contributions to Laclede County and the state of Missouri have left an indelible mark, and her legacy will continue to inspire others. As the community comes together to honor her memory, there is a collective sense of gratitude for her service and a commitment to carrying forward her work. Beth Long will be remembered as a trailblazer, a dedicated public servant, and a beloved member of her community.
