Eric Andrew Longer

Eric Andrew Longer passed away Tuesday, June 4, 2013, in Fayetteville, Ark. He was born June 15, 1977, in Lafayette, Ind., to David E. Longer and Elaine M. Thinnes Longer. He grew up in Fayetteville, was a graduate of Fayetteville High School and graduated from the University of Arkansas with a BA in German. He also held an associate of applied science degree in graphic design from the NorthWest Arkansas Community College. He was active in his community and in his church, and he always enjoyed meeting new people and making new friends. He enjoyed traveling and was fluent in German. He worked for years caring for adults with mental and physical challenges and loved being of service to others. When he wasn't in church, enjoying scripture study, fellowship or spiritual music, he was outdoors. He walked the Lake Fayetteville trail every day. He loved hiking, scuba diving, kayaking and time at the lake. He was a person who had a great heart, he was full of love and compassion, and he had a great sense of humor. He loved and preached the story of Jesus Christ. He served as a volunteer at Samaritan House and at St. Paul Episcopal Church, where he helped to serve meals to those in need. He is finally at rest with his Lord and Savior following a lifelong, courageous struggle with mental illness. He is survived by his parents, David and Elaine Longer of Fayetteville; his sister, Gretchen Longer of Fayetteville; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Visitation will be held from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday, June 9, at Nelson Berna Funeral Home, 4520 Crossover Road in Fayetteville, followed by a rosary at 6:45 p.m. at the funeral home chapel. Mass of Christian burial will be held on Monday, June 10, at 2 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1722 N. Starr Drive in Fayetteville, with Father Joseph Marconi and the Rev. Gary Harrell officiating. A graveside burial service will follow at Fairview Memorial Gardens, 1728 E. Mission Blvd., in Fayetteville under the direction of Nelson-Berna Funeral Home. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his name to Samaritan House, where Eric volunteered and enjoyed helping people. The mailing address is P.O. Box 939, Rogers, AR 72757. To sign the online guest book, please visit www.nelsonberna.com.