John Rice Long Sr.'s Obituary
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, pop-pop, and uncle, John (Johnny) R. Long, Sr., age 85, who passed away December 6, 2025 at Falls Run Nursing Home in Fredericksburg, Virginia.
He was born February 28, 1940 in Taylorville, Illinois. The last surviving child of Charles and Hazel Long who preceded him in death.
John was a short order cook at a hamburger stand in Texas, before being drafted into the United States Army during the time of Vietnam. He was well loved by his fellow service men, especially when he was the main cook on duty. After his service he was a long-haul mover driving across the country. He drove a big rig for over 30 years with Paxton and Atlas Van lines.
Johnny enjoyed playing the banjo and harmonica. He was an avid wood crafter and enjoyed drawing. He took great pride in his wooden toys, trinkets, and boxes, often giving them away to friends and family. He also enjoyed baking, especially making lemon meringue pies from scratch. He was an eat your dessert first kind of guy and would happily give you a bite of his own slice. He had the biggest heart, the best laugh, the warmest hugs and enjoyed being a big ol goof. He touched many hearts and will be missed greatly.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Judy Turner; two sisters, Mary and Evelyn; and five brothers, Charles Jr, Melford, Richard, Hiram and Bill.
Johnny is survived by his beloved wife, Beverly Long; three children, John Long Jr of Virginia, Jamie Fisher of Virginia, and Christine Pierce of Texas; four grandchildren, Nathaniel Fisher, Amelia Fisher, Jennifer Pierce Gather, and Samantha Gorham; seven great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Johnny was also a dad to many former Brooke Point band kids from 1996 to 2002.
A poem for my daddy
Farewell
The day has come, for you to go
My heart is shattered and my tears flow
Your heart was pure, your love was strong
You were always my number one
My heart is missing a special piece, that gained some wings and found release.
I'll always be your sugie and my heart will never forget
How my daddy always saw the best
I'll miss your humor and kindness and care.
I'll miss your smile and hugs with great sorrow
For I now know, you won't be there tomorrow.
I love you my daddy, my angel, my friend
I'll see you some day, when my story must end
Our last I love you was silent and sweet, I said the words that you tried to repeat. Instead you used your eyes before you went to sleep
I hope you left knowing how much you were loved
So goodbye for now daddy, from your sugie with love.
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?