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Billy J. Long
1931-2026
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Billy J. Long, who departed this life peacefully on March 3rd 2026 at age 94. Billy was born on April 28th 1931 in Concord, North Carolina, a son to the late Albertus Long and Inez Beatrice Furr.
Billy proudly served in the United States Army and dedicated 20 years, he entered the Army in 1948 and later climbed rank to Chief Warrant Officer and esteemed Army Helicopter Pilot serving in the Vietnam War. He later retired and transitioned into civilian life taking courses at Prince George’s Community College. After graduating with a business degree he began his career with the Prince Geroge’s County School Board as a Computer Operator and worked there until his retirement of 20+ years. After retiring fully Billy enjoyed gardening, reading, working with wood, crossword puzzles and old westerns.
In addition to his parent’s he was preceded in death by his wife of sixty years Joan; sisters Peggy Long Austin and former husband John Henry, Carolyn Long Baker and husband Conrad Baker; brother Larry (Sonny) Long and wife Carol. He is survived by his daughters Deborah J. Long and former husband John Mitchell, Leslie Long and her former husband Gary C. Curtis and granddaughter Caitlin M. (Caitie), and son Mark B. Long and wife Amy and step granddaughter Angie.
At the family’s request there will be no service at this time. Billy will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday May 20, 2026 at 11 AM with full Military Honor’s with rifle volley and Taps. There will also be a presentation of the United States Flag to be given to his children.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at arehartechols.com
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