Terry Long

Terrence Alan Long was born Jan. 6, 1953, in De Smet, S.D. to William “Bill” and Gloria Long (Truman).
Terry graduated from De Smet in 1971. Throughout his high school years Terry excelled in a number of sports including football, baseball, basketball and track and field. Terry continued his football career throughout college. He also played fast pitch softball for years after college. He continued his passion for sports, coaching throughout his life including coaching all three of his sons.
Terry married his high school sweetheart, Darlene, June 18, 1971 in De Smet. He attended South Dakota State University and Huron (S.D.) College, graduating in 1976 with a Bachelor of Arts.
After graduation Terry, Darlene, and Trevor moved to Lake Andes, S.D., to teach and coach. Terry and family also moved to Custer, S.D., De Smet, and returned to Custer in 1984.
Terry retired from teaching and coaching in 2015.
Aside from sports, Terry had many passions including family. He coached and attended many of his son’s and grandson’s sporting events traveling across the country for them. He also enjoyed fly fishing, hiking, attending concerts, traveling, watching/following the Yankees and bike riding with his wife.
Terry passed away unexpectedly Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023, while in nature enjoying a bike ride with his wife Darlene. He was 70.
He was preceded in death by his parents, relatives and several dear friends.
Terry is survived by his wife, Darlene; sons, Trevor (Johnna, Taige, Tallen) Long of Mesa, Colo., Trent (Corinna) Long of Creswell, Ore., and Tyg (Brooke) Long of Rapid City, S.D.; brothers, Thomas Long of Brookings, Ore.; and Todd Long of Locust Grove, Va., sister, Ann (Sally Twentey) Long of Locust Grove; and many other family members.
Terry was an amazing husband, brother, father, mentor, friend and coach. He will be greatly missed by those who met him. Peace and Love.
Donations can be made to Custer State Park or South Dakota Parks and Wildlife Foundation.  
Arrangements have been placed in the care of Chamberlain McColley’s Funeral Home in Custer.