John Walter Long, Jr., age 99, of Russellville, passed away on Thursday, August 26, 2021 at his residence.
Mr. Long was born on August 16, 1922 to John Walter Long, Sr. and Lula Eleanor Taylor Long of Russellville, AL. He experienced being born again as a Christian in his early 20’s. He proudly served his nation in the U.S. Army and was a World War II veteran. He worked for 34 years as a pipe fitter at Inland Steel where he was a hard worker, always providing for his family. Mr. Long was an active deacon in the church and serving his Lord for almost 70 years, and loving all gospel music. He was the caretaker at Ridge Cemetery for several years. Mr. Long’s motto was to treat everyone like you would want to be treated yourself and his favorite Bible verse is Psalms 119:165. He loved taking care of other people and everyone has such fond memories of him.
He leaves to cherish his memory, children, Phillip David Long (Kathy), Timothy Dean Long (Gail), Derissa Long Batchelor, Angie Malone, Becky Wolfenbarger (George); grandchildren, Jeremy Long (Priscilla), Jami Joi Long, Jerod Long (Candice), Crystal Neese (Brad), Justin Long, Amye Hayse, Jeremiah Malone, John Grafen, Katherine Ditta (John); 16 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces & nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 34 years, Myrtle Phillips Long; 2nd wife, MaryAnn Riley Long, a grandson, Joseph Plumley; parents, John Walter (Sr.) and Lula Eleanor Long; and siblings, Elmer Long, Athel Long, Modenia Long Witt, Walter Long, Dolly Long Franks, Geneva Long Stanford, Arville Long, Adell Long, Ruby Eloise Long Heavner, Iva Long Burton; and several nieces & nephews.
The visitation will be 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Sunday, August 29, 2021 at Spry Memorial Chapel. The funeral will be at 1:00 p.m. Monday, August 30, 2021 at Spry Memorial Chapel with Bro. Eddie Heavner officiating. Burial will be at Ridge Cemetery with military honors.
The pallbearers will be Jeremy Long, Jerod Long, Justin Long, Jeff Long, Bradley Long, Tony Heavner. Alternate pallbearer will be Gage Plumley.
The family would like to extend a sincere thanks to the nurses and staff of Southern Care New Beacon Hospice, especially to Tammy Taylor, Tina Roberts, and Amy Junot for the love and care of our father and grandfather.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to the family funeral expenses and travel expenses, c/o Spry Memorial Chapel, PO Box 246, Russellville, AL 35653.
Spry Memorial Chapel assisted the family. To have us sign the book for you, please free to call or to leave private condolences, please visit our website at www.sprymemorialchapel.com.
