Lynda Darlene Long entered her heavenly home on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at the age of 85. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Mobley-Groesbeck Funeral Service of Sand Springs.

Lynda was born on December 22, 1939, in Kemp, Texas, to Charles Vernon Johnstone and Florence Hazel (Hall) Johnstone. A proud graduate of Kemp High School, Class of 1958, she was active in the marching band, chosen as the FFA Sweetheart, and honored by her classmates as "Most Beautiful"—a title well-earned, as she truly radiated beauty inside and out.

She met her first husband, James William Trimble, in a moment that could have been written for a love song—she was singing at her cousin's wedding rehearsal, and he was the piano player. A shared Coke after rehearsal turned into 32 years of marriage and the blessing of two children, Jennifer and James. They began their life together in Woodson, Texas, before settling in the El Paso area. Though James eventually stepped away due to health concerns, his love for Lynda never waned. His wish was for her to be able to live fully without the burden of his care—a testament to his devotion.

Lynda was a lifelong educator with a deep passion for nurturing young minds. She earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in education from East Texas State in Commerce, Texas. She began her career teaching traditional homemaking classes, guiding her students in sewing competitions where they consistently excelled. Later, she developed a pioneering Child Development Lab at Jefferson High School in El Paso, working with one of the city's most underserved communities. There, she introduced junior and senior high school students to early childhood education by partnering them with preschool-aged children in a hands-on learning environment. It was a program she considered one of her proudest accomplishments.

After retiring around 2000, Lynda remained active and engaged. She worked in after-school programs, volunteered with the El Paso Opera, and lent her impeccable taste to friends' decorating businesses. A natural decorator with an eye for beauty, she brought charm and grace to every space she touched. Even in her final years, she never left the house without her makeup perfectly done—fashionable and polished, always.

Lynda was a devoted member of P.E.O., a faithful Christian, and a longtime member of the Methodist Church, where she often served as a greeter. Her warmth, kindness, and gentle spirit were felt by everyone who met her. She was known for never speaking a harsh word about anyone and was deeply loved in return.

Eighteen years ago, Lynda found love again with Avery Paul Long. Introduced by mutual friends who enjoyed golfing together, they shared many joyful years and adventures. Together, they made homes in Las Cruces, New Mexico; Bella Vista, Arkansas; and finally, Tulsa, Oklahoma. Their favorite travels included an Alaskan cruise and a riverboat cruise from Prague to Budapest. Both were supporters of the Sioux Nation of South Dakota and enjoyed attending worship at St. Simeon's, where the ministry held special meaning for them.

Lynda is survived by her loving husband, Avery Long; her children, Jennifer Lynn Wurth and husband, Michel, and James William Trimble and wife, Lisa; her cherished grandchildren, Kellum Trimble and wife, Lex, and Braedon Trimble and fiancée, Claire; and great-grandson, Finn Trimble. She is also survived by her brothers, Tommy Johnstone and Glen Johnstone and wife, Christine.

Lynda's legacy is one of beauty, grace, and compassion. She touched countless lives with her smile, her faith, and her unwavering kindness. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered.