James Marvin "J.M." Long, Jr.

James Marvin "J.M." Long, Jr., a cherished member of the Bethel community, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 25, 2024, at Silver Bluff Nursing & Rehabilitation. Born on February 28, 1927, in Haywood County, J.M. lived a life filled with dedication, family, and service.

A proud graduate of Bethel High School, J.M. graduated early to join the United States Army, where he served his country with honor. He stated that “he spent his 19th birthday in Germany”. Up until his death, he was one of the remaining less than 1% World War II veterans. After his military service, J.M. devoted 32 years to Southern Bell, retiring from a career that showcased his commitment and hard work.

J.M. was a passionate individual who found joy in farming and cattle. At heart a cattleman, his fondness for the Cattle Stockyards was matched only by his love for gardening, which brought him countless hours of fulfillment. He was a lifelong member of Bethel Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and contributed to the spiritual growth of his congregation. He always consistently shared his faith with the Lord. 

J.M. assisted in building his own home and was a master fence builder. His building projects had to be perfect. He was most proud of the deck he built for his wife and family to enjoy. They spent many hours on the deck, watching thunderstorms and their cattle, making memories that will last a lifetime. J.M. will always be remembered for his wealth of knowledge and his story telling and quick wit. He loved everyone he came in contact with, God first, followed by the deep love he had for his family and friends. He affectionately referred to Linda, the love of this life, as “His Gal”. He enjoyed her good cooking, especially her cornbread and biscuits. 

He is lovingly remembered by his family, which includes two daughters, Kathy Mellon (Doug) of Maiden, NC, and Jenny Valentine (Kevin) of Canton; one son, Kirk Long (Connie) of Waynesville; and one brother, Norman Long of Bethel. J.M. was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren: Jenna Mellon (Suzanne), Zach Mellon, Nathan Long (Amanda), Josh Long (Stephanie), Jonathan Long (Heather), Emily Long, Brayden Valentine (Krista), Chase Valentine, Sawyer Valentine (Natalee), and Brooks Valentine. His legacy continues with eight great-grandchildren: Addison Long, Mackenzie Long, Grayson Long, Bailey Long, Sadie Long, Hannah Long, Theo Mellon, and Manning Mellon; as well as two Valentine great-grandchildren on the way; and several nieces and nephews.

J.M. was preceded in death by his parents, James Marvin Long, Sr. and Lela Henson Long, and his beloved wife, Linda McCracken Long, who passed away in February 2016; sisters, Anna Mae Blaylock and Erma Lou Layman; brother, Henson Long; and an unnamed infant boy. 

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at Bethel Baptist Church with Reverend Dr. Roy Kilby and Reverend Kevin Valentine officiating. Burial will follow at Bethel Community Cemetery with military honors. The family will receive friends from 12:30 until service time at the church.

J.M. Long's life was a testament to the values of family, faith, and service. He will be deeply missed by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bethel Baptist Church, 5868 Pigeon Road, Canton, NC 28716

The care of Mr. Long has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com.