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Richard J. Long, age 81, of Lynchburg, Virginia went home on September 8, 2023. He was born on April 4, 1942, to George and Louise M. Long. Richard was born in Roxboro, North Carolina. The family later moved to Nelson County, Virginia when he was a young child, before finally moving to Lynchburg, Virginia.

While being raised in Lynchburg he graduated from Dunbar High School in 1962. While attending Dunbar High School he played many sports, and his best sport was playing football for the "Poets". He was offered a scholarship to play football at Livingstone College in Salisbury, N.C., but he chose to enter the workforce instead. During his working years, he worked for Rock-Tenn Co. and Delta Star, Inc. in Lynchburg before he retired, where he was a devoted and well-respected employee and co-worker at both companies.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, George and Louise M. Long, and grandson, Cameron N. (Cam) Long.

Richard is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 59 years, Aurelia P. Long (Connie) of Lynchburg, Virginia; his sons, Richard A. Long, Sr. (Jacqueline), Gregory O. Long, Sr., and Bryan S. Long (Beckley). His grandchildren, Richard A. Long, Jr., Gregory O. Long, Jr., Tabitha J. Long, Gabriel O. Long, Kaitlin D. Long, and Nehemiah R. Long; and one great-grandson, Owen O. Long.

Also left to cherish precious memories of him are his sister, Lucille Stewart; his brothers, George E. Long (Janet), Willie Long (Linda), and Michael Long (Jean); and a host of special in-laws, nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

Lastly, the family of Richard J. Long would like to give thanks to God, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for blessing our family with a man who accepted Christ at an early age and loved God and his family dearly. Who honored God with his actions and words and always put the needs and the thoughts of others ahead of his own.

We would like to thank all of the caregivers and care facilities who were instrumental in caring for him from the beginning of his time of illness until his passing. Also, a special Thank You, to Angela Graham, Maxine Reid, and Michael Long, whose help with him during the Covid-19 pandemic was a blessing and greatly appreciated.

Thank you to everyone who has blessed us with your thoughts, prayers, and the encouragement you have given during our time of need, may God richly bless you all!

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, September 16, 2023, at Forest Hill Burial Park. Mr. Long will be on view from 9:30 AM-6:00 PM on Friday, September 15, 2023, at Davis-Turner Funeral Service. Service of comfort rendered by Davis-Turner Funeral Service.