William Earl Long

William Earl Long, born August 6th, 1979 in Columbia, SC, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at the age of 45. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend who was known for his warm heart, infectious laughter, and unwavering passion for life. He leaves behind a legacy of love, joy, and cherished memories.

A true lover of the simple pleasures, William found his greatest happiness in the kitchen, where he poured his heart into every dish he made. Whether hosting a dinner party or just cooking for a quiet evening at home, his food was more than a meal—it was an expression of care and connection.

Music was the rhythm of his soul. He could often be found with his favorite songs playing in the background or sharing playlists with friends. His appreciation for music mirrored his appreciation for life—vibrant, heartfelt, and full of depth.

A lifelong fan of the Clemson Tigers and the San Francisco 49ers, game days were sacred to William. He cheered with passion, never missed a play, and was always ready to debate a call or celebrate a victory with friends and family.

Movies were another of his great joys. He could quote classics with ease and had a knack for recommending the perfect film for any mood or occasion. But above all, William was most proud of and deeply admired his nieces and nephew. His love for them knew no bounds, and his time with them was filled with laughter, guidance, and thoughtful gifts. .

To know William was to feel seen, valued, and lifted. He made a profound impact on all who crossed his path—whether for a moment or a lifetime. His presence had a way of turning ordinary moments into lasting memories, and his kindness left a memorable mark on countless hearts.

William is survived by parents, Nancy Shaffer Daniel and Ralph Sr. and Brenda Long; siblings, Ralph (Tiffany) Long, Jr. and Audrey (Kevin) Jacobs; nephew, Jacob Long; nieces, Charli and Miller Jacobs, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. William was preceded in death by grandparents, Russell and Myrtle Long, Bill and Mary Shaffer, and Donald and Lorita Thomas.

While the world feels a little dimmer without him, his light will continue to shine through the lives he touched and the love he gave so freely.

William graduated from Lexington High School in 1997. He graduated from Johnson & Wales University in 2008 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Culinary Arts and 2013 with a Masters of Business Administration in Organizational Leadership. William had many accomplishments, notably winning the first prize at the First Annual Seawatch Clam Recipe Contest at the Boston Seafood Show.

A celebration of William’s life will be held on Friday, April 18, 2025 at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, West Columbia Chapel, 820 West Dunbar Road, West Columbia, SC 29170. Visitation will be 1:00pm - 1:45pm with the funeral service beginning at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to organizations supporting Multiple Sclerosis, Cystic Fibrosis, and Mental Health, all of which were important to William.

Rest easy, William. You were one of a kind, and we’ll carry you with us always.