Kathryn Long

Kathryn Long passed away peacefully at home on January 27, 2026, surrounded by her devoted husband and loving children. She was born on October 4, 1949, in Cedar City, Utah, to Ruth and Francis Betenson, the second of their three children. From an early age, Kathy was blessed to be part of a close knit family who cherished time together and fostered deep, lasting bonds.

Gifted with remarkable musical talent, Kathy became an accomplished pianist and played cello with the Southern Utah Symphony Orchestra during her young adult years in Cedar City. Music remained one of her greatest joys throughout her life, and she shared that passion generously with others.

In 1966, Kathy met the love of her life, Jesse E. Long, while he was attending college in Cedar City. Their love grew quickly and beautifully, and the two were sealed for time and all eternity in the St. George LDS Temple on June 12, 1970. Together they built a life defined by love, faith, and unwavering commitment as they moved through several chapters and locations—Oahu, HI; Orem, UT; Livermore, CA; Electric City, WA—before settling in Montrose, Colorado, in January 1983, where they would raise their family and build lifelong friendships.

Kathy’s work life reflected her dedication to service and her love of people. She taught piano, worked for Salazar and Associates, and served in the Montrose School District before partially retiring to work as a receptionist. In every role, she brought warmth, kindness, and an ability to make others feel valued.

Above all else, Kathy was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She treasured every moment spent with her family. In her later years, one of her greatest joys was traveling to visit her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, building memories that will be cherished for generations. She had a beautiful, gentle soul—one that loved deeply and was deeply loved in return.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Ruth and Francis Betenson, and her brother in law, Bill Long, who will lovingly welcome her home.

She is survived by her older brother Brent (Dixie) Betenson and her sister Joann (Douglas) Cox; her eternal husband and companion, Jesse E. Long; and her children, Michalle (Shaun) Beringhaus, Andrea (Kimo) Bandmann, Jeffery (Michelle) Long, Jenae (Ty) Cox, and Kimberly (Turreal) Moore

She leaves behind a large and beloved posterity of grandchildren:

Devon (Chantrea) Beringhaus, Braxton (Hadlie) Shirley, Alissa (Lane) Lee, Megan Berringhaus, Bella Weesner, Kasha (Josh) Malan, Kahala Maikalani (William) Ward, Kui’ll Bandmann, Kincaid Long, Gracie Long, Kian Long, Kelsey Rocco, Taygan Rocco, CJ Rocco, Breckin Cox, Bailee Moore, and Covelli Moore.

Kathy is also survived by her precious great grandchildren:

Kiya Malan, Axel Malan, Brock Shirley, Bettie Shirley, and Nora Lee.

Kathy will be remembered always—for her compassion, her faith, her music, and the love she poured into every relationship. Her legacy of gentleness, devotion, and deep family love will continue to bless all who knew her.

She will be forever missed and forever loved.

Kathy will be laid to rest in Montrose, Colorado. A funeral service will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 1521 South Hillcrest in Montrose, Corado on February 6th, 2026, at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers or plants please donate to the Montrose Red Hawk Sports Fan Club at https://redhawkfans.com or to Centennial Middle School at https://givebutter.com/RflukX.