Clifton "Cliff" Clay Long III

Clifton “Cliff” Clay Long III passed from this earth on February 26, 2026, at The Blossom’s Nursing Center in Van Buren, Arkansas. Cliff was born on July 19, 1944, in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was the son of Dr. Clifton Clay Long Jr. and Esther June Callahan Long. Shortly before his second birthday, cliff and his family moved to Ozark, Arkansas, a place that would remain close to his heart throughout his life. Cliff was deeply devoted to his sons, his family, and his many friends. He loved Ozark, the Arkansas Razorbacks, and a good time shared with people he cared about. His lifelong loyalty to the Razorbacks began at the University of Arkansas, where he proudly marched as a member of the Razorback band. While growing up in Ozark, Cliff was actively involved in First Methodist Church and participated in many church services and events. He played the drums in the Ozark High School Band and, during his junior year, had the honor of serving as a page for Congressman James William Trimble in Washington, D.C. After high school, Cliff attended the University of Arkansas before joining the United States Navy, where he served as a Hospital Corpsman. He later earned a degree in Economics from Arkansas Tech University. Cliff spent the majority of his professional career working for Dow Chemical Industries in Russellville, Arkansas, and Lake Jackson, Texas. He followed these years at La-Z-Boy Furniture and Ashley Furniture in the Dallas area and in Ft. Smith. Following his retirement, Cliff returned to his beloved hometown at Ozark, where he reconnected with dear friends and cherished fond memories from earlier years. Cliff was preceded in death by his parents and his infant son, James. He is survived by his sons, Keith Long and Clay Long, his sisters, Mary Gardner, Joan McKinney, and June Drain and her husband Wayne, as well as many dear friends. Funeral services will be held at Shaffer Funeral on Tuesday, March 3 at 2:00 pm with visitation beforehand at 1:00 pm. Interment at Highland Cemetery to follow. Pall Bearers: Bill Alston, Don Burns, Don Johnston, Danny Robison, Larry Stewart, Lonnie Turner, Tommy White To leave an online memorial visit www.shafferfuneralhomeweb.com

Clifton "Cliff" Clay Long III

July 19, 1944 - February 26, 2026