Kenneth “Max” Long

Kenneth “Max” Long, known to us all as just Max, was a man of many hats. He was born in Amherst, Texas on November 26, 1940, and grew up to be a charismatic and resilient man who lived his life to the fullest. Max was ushered to his Heavenly home on February 27, 2025.

His humor and wit could light up any room he walked into. His granddaughter, Bailey, fondly recalls, “When Gramps was around, you couldn’t help but smile. He had a way of making you laugh, even when you thought you couldn’t.

Memorial Services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Tuesday March 4, 2025, at Washington Ave. Christian Church, 3800 S. Washington St., Amarillo, Texas.

Max was a self-employed businessman who was passionate about his work and cared deeply about his customers. But that was just one facet of his multifaceted personality. He was an avid sports fan who cheered passionately for the Cowboys, Texas Tech, and the Texas Rangers. He was also a lover of nature, a hunter, and an avid fisherman who found joy in the serenity of the mountains. However, his favorite destination was Red River, New Mexico, where he found peace and tranquility. “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page,” a quote by Saint Augustine, perfectly describes Max’s love for exploration and adventure.

Max was an inspiring figure who faced life’s challenges with a smile on his face. He was the embodiment of resilience, overcoming some of the hardest things in life with unwavering determination and a fighting spirit. His family admired him for his strength and was grateful for the blessing of having him in their lives. His love for his family was evident in the joy he derived from spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents A.B. Long, Opal Polk, and his stepfather Wilford Polk, his brother Ernest Long, his significant other Carol Kirkland, and his ex-wife and beloved friend Jeanette Long.

Max is survived by his children Lisa Nichols, Bob Long, and Mike Long; his grandchildren Bailey (Brayden) Oglesby, Bryson Ogden, Allie (Ryan) Jones, Alec Long, and Halen Long; his great-grandchildren Summerlyn Ogden, Charlotte Oglesby, and Jack Jones, and two more great-grandchildren that are on the way; and his sister Jo Scales and brother-in-law, Louie Scales. He is also fondly remembered by his numerous friends and relatives.

In the words of Helen Keller, “What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” Max’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. We invite you to share your memories of Max and upload photos to his memorial page. Your stories and pictures will serve as a reminder of the joy and laughter he brought into our lives.