Delbert Long

Delbert E. Long, 83 of Fort Sumner, NM died Wednesday, January 10, 2007 at his home. Delbert was born May 19, 1923 in Plainview, Texas to the home of Richard Bernie Long and the former Elizabeth Bracken. In 1928 he moved with his family to Fort Sumner where he attended school. He married Ora Lee Harden on March 21, 1942 in Clovis, NM. Delbert worked as a supervisor for El Paso Natural Gas for 31 years. He worked all of his life as a cowboy on area ranches. He enjoyed roping, riding broncs, and attending rodeos. Delbert served in the U.S. Army during World War II and took part in a move of 900 pack mules from Burma to China. He was the only New Mexican to make the 745 mile, 64 day trip, transporting supplies and ammunition to U.S. troops. Delbert was a member of The Truth church for many years. He was preceded in death by his wife Ora Lee Long on January 2, 2000; a brother Deral Long in 2006; sisters Mavanee Bryan in 2002 and Nina Walraven in 2003. Survivors include a daughter Delphane McGilvray of Carlsbad; three grandsons Damon (Iselda) McGilvray of Odessa, TX; Destery (Piper) McGilvray and Darrin (Carol) McGilvray of Carlsbad, NM; a brother Gene Long and wife Shirley of Decatur, Ill a sister Faye Thomas and husband Hank of Lincoln, Ill, and a sister in law Pat Long of Portales, a special friend Sue Shann of Fort Sumner; 8 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild expected soon, along and a host of nieces, nephews and many friends. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 13, 2007 from the Chavez Funeral Home Chapel in Fort Sumner, New Mexico with Dale De Raad and Jacque Payne leading the service. Burial will follow at Fort Sumner Cemetery. Pallbearers will include Lealand Earle, Clayton Price, Mike Leonhardt, Larry Throgmorton, Damon, Destery, and Darrin McGilvray. All arrangements are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home in Fort Sumner, NM.