Birth date: Feb 18, 1929 Death date: Aug 15, 2016
Rufus Albert Long February 18, 1929 – August 15, 2016 Nashville mourns the lost of a talented and popular musician. Rufus Albert Long (87), LaVergne, (Rutherford) Tennessee on (15 August 2016) . Rufus was born in Hendersonville, Read Obituary
I was lucky enough to have Rufus as my band director for four years at East High School. He always tried to build you up. He used to play baseball with us, and he was always the catcher. That earned him the nickname "Yogi", after Yogi Berra. My condolences to Gil and Vicki.
The best teacher ever. Many fond memories from Hillwood High School band.
I was lucky enough to get to play guitar for many years in Rufus' dance band.
He was a perfectionist and knew how to draw the best from me as a musician.
Rufus was also a good friend and I will miss him.
Mike Roberts
Nashville
The Longs were family friends for years and he was my band director at Hillwood. He was always fun to be around in addition to being a great musician and director. I still remember the zeal he displayed wake-jumping with us in his boat one afternoon. Hearing him play the flute solo in "1812" some years later while I was sitting in with the Nashville Symphony as an extra brass player was a treat.
I am so sorry for your loss. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mary Margaret Moore
I could not exaggerate the impact Mr. Long had on my life. He was my "Mr. Holland."
Bill Moody
Hillwood Class of '71
