Curtis Theodore Long

Curtis Theodore Long

February 18, 1973 – June 14, 2025

Curtis Theodore Long, a 52-year-old resident of Lake City, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at home on June 14, 2025. As many of you are aware, Curtis had been grappling with various health challenges throughout the years due to persistent complications arising from injuries sustained in a car accident when just 18 years old. He is survived by his father: Rev. Fred “Buddy” Long, Jr. (Pat Long - deceased), his sister Suzanne Long-Holstein (Robert Holstein), his twin brother Charles Long, his nephew: Tyler Long, his niece Kierstan Davis (Matt, Dawson, and Parklynn Davis), and a host of extended family, and beloved friends.

Curtis was known for his charisma, charm, boundless energy and competitive spirit. In high school he was an active member of Future Farmers of America and played baseball for the Anderson County Mavericks. He loved the outdoors—particularly hunting and fishing. He also had a love for fast cars– especially his cherished Camaro.

Despite being paralyzed at the age of 18, Curtis’s unwavering determination remained unshaken. He re-learned to drive and even tested the occasional quarter mile. He also passed on his passion for water sports to his niece, whom he affectionately referred to as “Butterbutt.” For many years, Curtis continued hunting and fishing with his nephew, whom he lovingly called “My Boy.” Curtis found immense joy in the company of his two beloved boxer dogs, Lady and Babe. They were his closest friends other than Otis “Punk” Poore and Dewayne “Doodle” Henderson. He remained a fixture in so many lives, not as someone who had lost something, but as someone who had transformed tragedy into purpose.

Curtis later became a voice for change, speaking publicly and on social media about the dangers of drinking and driving. He inspired countless young people through school talks, church groups, and community events. In his honor, local youth sports teams wore a “PLC” sticker—Play Like Curtis—on their helmets for many years, symbolizing grit, heart, and resilience.

His quiet strength left a mark on everyone who knew him. As we say our earthly goodbyes to Curtis we take comfort in knowing that he is no longer in pain, and is now in the loving embrace of his Creator and reunited with loved ones who have gone before him… especially his mother. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory inspire us all.

Visitation: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Tuesday, June 17, 2025 with funeral service following visitation at 7:00 PM at Hatmaker Funeral Home, 503 S. Main Street, Lake City, TN 37769.

Family and Friends will meet at Hatmaker Funeral Home on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at 3:15 PM to go in procession to Island Ford Baptist Church on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 for a 4:00 PM graveside service.