Mr. Kevin Long

“I have fought the good fight, have finished my course, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearance.” 

-2 Timothy 4:7-8

Kevin Fernando Long was born on January 20, 1955 in Clinton, South Carolina. He was the son of David Murphy and Nancy Martin. He peacefully transitioned into eternal rest on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at Prisma Health Richland Hospital in Columbia, SC.

At an early age, Kevin accepted Christ and joined Hebron Baptist Church in Clinton, SC. When he settled in Columbia, South Carolina and married his wife, Frankie, they joined New Ebenezer Baptist Church. While serving at New Ebenezer he was a deacon for 29 years.

Kevin was a 1973 graduate of Clinton High School, in Clinton, South Carolina. He was a standout running back at Clinton High School. During his time at Clinton High, he along with his teammates won the South Carolina AAA Football Championship. After graduating high school, he continued his education at the University of South Carolina and became the first player ever to rush for more than 1,000 yards in football. Kevin went on to be drafted by the New York Jets in the National Football League and played there for 5 years. He also played in the United States Football League for the Chicago Blitz and the Arizona Wranglers.

Kevin became a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity in 1975, while attending the University of South Carolina. He graduated from USC with a Bachelor’s Degree in Health and Physical Education. Kevin was beloved husband, father, grandfather, son and friend who will be missed by all who came to know and love him.

Kevin was preceded in death by his grandmother, Tensie Young, who helped raise him; and his brother, Derwent Long.

Kevin leaves leaves to cherish his memory; his loving and supportive wife, Frankie E. Long of the home; one son, Kevin Gilliam of Clinton, SC; three daughters, Latifah Long, Alisa Long and Salia Long, all of Columbia, SC; seven grandchildren; his father, David Murphy of Clinton, SC; his loving mother, Nancy Martin also of Clinton, SC; five brothers, Vito (Cheryl) Martin, and Billy Martin of Clinton, SC, David Murphy of Trenton, NJ, Rick Murphy of Greenville, SC, Van Murphy of Trenton, NJ; one sister, Wanda Murphy of Clinton, SC; two sisters-in-law, Wilma Porter of Greenville, SC and Ruth McClary of Columbia, SC; two aunts, Aurelia Peake and Polly (Henry) Calhoun both of Washington, D.C.; three god-children, Kiante Currenton, Phillip Barrett and Ebone Williamson; and a host of nephews, nieces, and other loving relatives and friends.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mr. Kevin Long, please visit our floral store.