The Corvallis community is still reeling from the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Tina Longballa, a cherished educator at Santiam Christian Schools whose life was defined by compassion, warmth, and an unwavering commitment to her students and colleagues. The news of her death spread quickly through the tight-knit community, leaving a deep sense of sorrow among families, friends, and everyone she touched with her kindness.
Tina was much more than a teacher — she was a mentor, a friend, and an emotional anchor for many young people navigating the ups and downs of school and adolescence. Students remember her as someone who didn’t just teach lessons from textbooks but also took the time to listen, encourage, and make each individual feel genuinely important. Whether it was a difficult assignment or a personal struggle, Tina’s door was always open. Her smile, quiet strength, and genuine interest in others created a supportive atmosphere that lifted spirits and built confidence.
Colleagues at Santiam Christian reflect on her as the heartbeat of the halls — somebody whose presence brightened every room she entered. She understood that teaching wasn’t just about curriculum but about connection. Her work at the school extended beyond the classroom, influencing school events, extracurricular activities, and community outreach in ways that often went unnoticed yet deeply felt. Teachers spoke of her generosity, her ready laugh, and the way she could diffuse tension with a single kind word.
Details surrounding her passing have been tenderly respected by her family and friends, who have asked for privacy during this profoundly difficult time. Still, the void left in her absence is palpable. Parents shared how Tina reached out with comforting notes, how her patience helped shape young minds, and how her encouragement changed the trajectory of lives. Her legacy is measured not in accolades, but in the countless young adults who carry forward her belief in empathy and resilience.
Plans to honor Tina’s life began taking shape almost immediately, as community members united to ensure her memory is celebrated with the dignity it deserves. A Celebration of Life has been scheduled for Saturday, December 20, at 3:00 p.m. at Calvary Chapel Corvallis, where students, friends, family, and community members are invited to gather, reflect, share stories, and support one another in grief and remembrance.
During this period of mourning, the outpouring of love, support, and heartfelt condolences has been overwhelming for Tina’s loved ones. Many have shared how her kindness made ordinary days brighter, and how her belief in others inspired them to become their best selves. For a community built on tight bonds, her absence is both a personal and collective grief.
Tina’s life was a testament to the power of presence — showing up with warmth, encouragement, and genuine care for others. In schools, homes, and hearts across Corvallis, her legacy will live on not merely in memories, but in the compassionate actions of those she influenced. From the students who felt seen to the colleagues who learned from her example, her spirit of kindness will continue to shape this community for years to come.
