Joy Lynn Long

Joy Lynn Long, affectionately known as Lynn, passed away March 12, 2026, in Decatur, Texas, at the age of 78. 

She was born on October 31, 1947, in Olney, Texas. Lynn was a spirited woman who left the world better than she found it. Her greatest joys were her family and a lifetime of serving others. On June 26, 1964, Lynn married the love of her life, Virgil Wayne Long, marking the beginning of a dedicated partnership that spanned over five decades. Together, they raised two children, Wayland and Lisa, who are the continuation of the Long family legacy. 

Alongside her husband, they founded the Long Oil Company in the late 1960s building the fuel distributorship into one of the strongest in the nation. They sold that company and began pursuing ranching. Her love for cutting horses and cheering on her family ran deep. She was a 47 year member of the National Cutting Horse Association and the American Quarter Horse Association. Lynn won an AQHA Amateur Cutting World Championship in 2007. Her greatest accomplishment was seeing her children and grandchildren succeed in everything they did. Lynn was the loudest supporter at every cutting, sporting event, stock show and 4-H activity. 

Lynn was devoted to her community as an active member in the General Federation of Women’s Club, Wise Hope, Daughters of the American Revolution, Decatur Church of Christ and much more. She enjoyed fellowship, service and supporting causes that were meaningful to her. Her generosity and servant’s heart were evident in the many lives she touched.

Lynn is survived by her son, Wayland Long, and his wife, Carrie; her daughter, Lisa Bradshaw, and husband Steve. She leaves behind a legacy in her grandchildren: Libby and Ethan Eisenbarth, Abby Long and Forest Moore, Binion Long, Lyndi and Colton Bourquin, Lauryn Luttrull, Zach and Jessie Bradshaw, Kyle Bradshaw and Shelby and Grant Petty; Additionally, her great-grandchildren, Ozzie Eisenbarth, Kutter Bradshaw, and Shane Bradshaw.

Lynn was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne Long, her parents, Wayland and Kama Biggs and her sister, Juanita Marley Hill.

Funeral for Lynn will be held at Decatur Church of Christ located at 2601 FM 51 in Decatur, Texas. Visitation is set for March 14, 2026, at 9:30 AM with the funeral to follow at 10:30 AM. She will be laid to rest at Oaklawn Cemetery, at 465 Cemetery Road, Decatur immediately following the services.

Phillip Askey will officiate. Pallbearers include Faron Hightower, Tyler White, Doyle Lowe, Gary Cooper, Calvin Buchanan, Pedro Ruiz, Don Younger, Clint Mercer, and Todd Farquhar.Lynn's legacy as a loving grandmother and friend will continue to inspire those fortunate enough to know her.

In lieu of flowers you may consider a donation to Wise Hope 608 N. Bus 287 Decatur, TX 76234