Dr. David "Dave" Longer's Obituary
Devoted husband and father, beloved professor, mentor to thousands, and faithful servant of God.
Dr. David “Dave” Longer passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026, leaving a legacy of faith, love, curiosity, and service that touched countless lives.
Dave is survived by his loving wife and soulmate, Elaine, and his daughter, Gretchen. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Eric.
Family was one of Dave’s greatest joys. He was a devoted and deeply involved father who enthusiastically supported Eric and Gretchen in their many activities—swimming, tennis, soccer, dance, gymnastics, baseball, and more. He also shared with them his love of the outdoors and the joy of floating rivers.
Canoeing held special meaning in Dave’s life. It was on a canoeing trip that Dave and Elaine first fell in love, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in shared adventure, faith, and devotion to one another.
Before beginning his academic career, Dave served in the United States Army during the Vietnam conflict, where he trained soldiers in bomb defusal. That experience helped inspire his lifelong dedication to teaching.
Dave began his studies at Indiana University, later continuing at Ball State University and Purdue University, leading to a distinguished academic career.
He spent many years as a professor of Agronomy at the University of Arkansas, where he was honored as University Professor Emeritus and a member of the University’s Teaching Academy. Known for his enthusiasm and mentorship, Dave inspired thousands of students.
Dave’s curiosity about the world never faded. He was always reading, exploring new ideas, and encouraging others to think more deeply.
Beyond the classroom, Dave pursued innovative research addressing global water scarcity. He founded Transglobal Water Resources, developing prototypes capable of desalinating salt water and purifying polluted freshwater using renewable energy.
Dave loved the outdoors and always looked forward to the next hike or adventure. At a Virginia family reunion in 2018, at age 73, he delighted relatives by performing a backflip off a diving board. Friends often remarked that he combined a brilliant mind with a playful spirit and sense of humor.
Faith was central to Dave’s life. He mentored many through Bible studies and discipleship groups and was a devoted member of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Fayetteville. Dave and Elaine also helped provide Sunday evening meals following the 5:00 p.m. Mass for hundreds of university students.
Above all, Dave was known for his kindness, generosity, and willingness to encourage others.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, March 18, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 603 N. Leverett Avenue, Fayetteville, Arkansas.
Rosary at 10:30 a.m., followed by Mass at 11:00 a.m., with burial to follow at Fairview Memorial Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Fayetteville, Arkansas, in memory of David Longer.
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