Dr. David "Dave" Longer

Dr. David “Dave” Longer passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026. A devoted husband and father, beloved professor, mentor to thousands, and faithful servant of God, he left behind a legacy of faith, love, curiosity, and service that touched countless lives.

Dave is survived by his loving wife and soulmate, Elaine, and his daughter, Gretchen. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Eric. Family was one of his greatest joys. He was a deeply involved father who enthusiastically supported Eric and Gretchen in their many activities, from swimming, tennis, and soccer to dance, gymnastics, and baseball. He also shared with them his love of the outdoors and the simple pleasure of floating rivers.

Canoeing held special meaning in Dave’s life. It was on a canoeing trip that he and Elaine first fell in love, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in shared adventure, faith, and devotion to one another. Before his academic career, Dave served in the United States Army during the Vietnam conflict, training soldiers in bomb defusal—an experience that helped shape his lifelong dedication to teaching.

He pursued studies at Indiana University, Ball State University, and Purdue University before embarking on a distinguished academic career. For many years he served as a professor of Agronomy at the University of Arkansas, where he was honored as University Professor Emeritus and a member of the University’s Teaching Academy. Known for his enthusiasm and mentorship, Dave inspired thousands of students. His curiosity never faded; he was always reading, exploring new ideas, and encouraging others to think more deeply.

Beyond the classroom, he pursued innovative research addressing global water scarcity. He founded Transglobal Water Resources and developed prototypes capable of desalinating salt water and purifying polluted freshwater using renewable energy. Dave loved the outdoors and looked forward to every hike or adventure. At a Virginia family reunion in 2018, at age 73, he delighted relatives by performing a backflip off a diving board. Friends often remarked that he combined a brilliant mind with a playful spirit and sense of humor.

Faith was central to Dave’s life. He mentored many through Bible studies and discipleship groups and was a devoted member of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Fayetteville. Together with Elaine, he helped provide Sunday evening meals following the 5:00 p.m. Mass for hundreds of university students. Above all, he was known for his kindness, generosity, and willingness to encourage others.