Obituary of Whitey Long
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Age 94 of West Branch, formerly of Mt. Morris, died on Sunday, April 26, 2020, at The Brook of West Branch. A Private Graveside Service will be celebrated on May 14, 2020, with burial to follow in Flint Memorial Park. Memorial donations may be directed to Veterans Support of Michigan, 3778 S. Lapeer Road Metamora, MI 48455. Please visit Whitey’s tribute page at martinfuneralhome.com.
Whitey was born on January 7, 1926, in Flint, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Alva and Marie (Stevens) Long. Raised in Flint, Whitey grew up in a large family and was educated locally through the Flint Community Schools. Heeding the call to serve his country, Whitey proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned to Flint. Whitey would meet the love of his life Mary Ellen Leach while roller skating. The two dated, fell in love, and were united in marriage on January 25, 1947, in Otter Lake. Sadly, she preceded him in death on September 2, 2017. Whitey would go to work for the City of Flint Department of Public Works, as a heavy equipment operator, retiring in 1984, with over 30 years of service.
Whitey was a devoted husband, dad, and grandpa, attending all of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren’s school activities. Whitey loved classic cars and was an avid baseball and softball player. He also loved watching the Detroit Tigers.
Whitey leaves to cherish his memory, three children: Joyce Long and husband, Steve Blood, Randy and wife, Diane Long, and Ronny and wife, Pam Long; five grandchildren: Corey Robinson, Tiffany and husband, Steve Close, Leslye Long, Bridget Long and husband, Joe Chuba and Brent Long; six great-grandchildren: Riley Robinson, Luke Robinson, Lily Robinson, Bailey Bogard, Taylor Bogard, and Hazel Chuba; brother, Richard Long; sister-in-law, Edna Long; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mary Ellen; seven brothers and two sisters. The family would like to extend a special thanks to the Staff of The Brook of West Branch, especially Mary, Mariah, and Katie and to Compassus Hospice, and their nurses, Alex and Janay, for their love and care.
