Georgia-2009-SR1645-Enrolled

Honoring the life and memory of Deacon Ralph Long, Jr.; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished citizens with the passing of Deacon Ralph Long, Jr., on April 24, 2010; and

WHEREAS, Deacon Long was born on April 29, 1930, in Athens, Georgia, a beloved son of the late Oree Barnett Long and Ralph Long, Sr.; and

WHEREAS, a graduate of Athens High and Industrial Schools, Deacon Long served as a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty with the United States Army, valiantly and courageously protecting his fellow Americans during the Korean War; and

WHEREAS, he was recognized during his service to this country with a Combat Infantry Badge, a Korean Service Medal with two campaign Bronze Stars, and a United Nations Service Medal; and

WHEREAS, Deacon Long diligently and conscientiously devoted his time, talents, and energy for 30 years to the United States Postal Service; and

WHEREAS, a man of deep and abiding faith, Deacon Long was an active member of Chestnut Grove Baptist Church; and

WHEREAS, Deacon Long was united in love and marriage to Juanita Mitchell Long for 54 wonderful years and was blessed with three remarkable children, Roy, Katrinia, and Karen; six wonderful grandchildren, Raymond, LaShawne, Jonathan, Jessica, Rachel, and Matthew; and four delightful great-grandchildren, Alexis, Tyree, Sophia, Sebastian; and

WHEREAS, he gave inspiration to many through his high ideals, morals, and deep concern for his fellow citizens, and the devotion, patience, and understanding he demonstrated to his family and friends were admired by others; and

WHEREAS, he was a person of magnanimous strengths with an unimpeachable reputation for integrity, intelligence, fairness, and kindness and, by the example he made of his life, he made this world a better place in which to live; and

WHEREAS, a compassionate and generous man, Deacon Long will long be remembered for his love of family and friendship, and this loyal husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend will be missed by all who had the great fortune of knowing him.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body join in honoring the life and memory of Deacon Ralph Long, Jr., and express their deepest and most sincere regret at his passing.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to the family of Deacon Ralph Long, Jr.