John W. Long, 67, of Worcester died Monday, December 31st at home. He leaves his wife of 46 years, Elizabeth A. (Berry) Long; a son, Christopher J. Long and his wife, Robyn of Worcester; a daughter, Kelly Ann Long of Worcester; a granddaughter, Molly Clare Morello, who was the light of his eyes; three brothers, Edward J. Long, Jr. of Worcester, James D. Long and his wife, Gloria V. of Boylston and Paul M. Long and his wife, Kathleen A. of Worcester; three sisters, Kathleen A. Laperle and her husband, Paul A. of Spencer, Frances D. Milionis and her husband, George of Paxton and Arlene E. Long of Worcester; a brother in law, Roy E. Hebert, Jr. of Greece, NY; many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. He was predeceased by a sister, Mary Ellen Hebert and a sister in law, Mary Ann Long.
Mr. Long was born in Worcester the son of Edward J. Long, Sr. and Marion R. (Kehoe) Long. John attended St. Paul’s Grammar School and South High School. He was a veteran of the United States Army, serving in Germany with the Airborne Division as a communication specialist. John worked for 35 years at the Norton Company as a classifier. He was well known for his basketball skills and was the only Irishmen on an Albanian basketball team. John played for the Ionic Boys Club and the Crompton Park basketball leagues. He also played on many CYC basketball leagues and belonged to the Keroe basketball league. Mr. Long also was a coach with Tom Ash Little League. John was a member of St. Stephen’s Church. Mr. Long was inseparable from his good friend, John Shaughnessy.
A celebration of John's life be held on Saturday, January 5th with a Mass at 11:30 AM in St. Stephen’s Church, 357 Grafton Street. Per John's request there are no calling hours. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701. O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue is directing arrangements.