Donald R. Long, 81, of Newport News was born to parents Floy and Bronnie Long on November 5, 1939 in Georgia. Donald spent his early years working, until he enlisted in the Unites States Army where he served for 23 years, before retiring as a Master Sergeant. He served two tours in Vietnam and earned the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, Purple Heart, Air Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Senior Aircraft Crewman Badge, Good Conduct Medal, and the Meritorious Service Medal.
Donald’s love for the military extended past his stay in the Army. He spent much of his time teaching young people about helicopters and writing manuals on helicopter repairs for the Army. Donald was also a dog lover and enjoyed rebuilding old clocks. He sold life insurance after he left the Army, then retiring as an instructor at Fort Eustis.
Donald R. Long is preceded by his wife Jacqueline Long; brother Billie Long; and sister Bobbie Marholz.
He is survived by his son Lance Long; daughter Betty Long; sibling Terry Long; grandchild Greg Spears (Amanda); and 2 great-grandchildren Aubrie Spears and Lacie Spears.
Donald R. Long will have a viewing on Wednesday, March 24, 2021 between 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm and a service at Albert G. Horton Jr. Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery on March 25, 2021 at 2:00 pm.
Services in care of Altmeyer Funeral Home – Riverside Chapel.
Date: Wednesday, March 24, 2021
Time: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Location:
Altmeyer Funeral Home – Denbigh Chapel
Date: Thursday, March 25, 2021
Time: 2:00 pm
Location:
Albert G. Horton Memorial Veteran Cemetery
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Cheryl J Skinner Tri-State Military Museum posted on 3/25/21
May the love of God surround you and your family during this difficult time, May you come to know that the love of God is with you always, May your memories of Donald R. Long, give you peace, comfort and strength… Rest now in the arms of our Lord your mission on earth is complete. I thank you for your service to our Country and my Freedom. You will not be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers to the family of …. US Army Veteran, Donald R. Long, is “A True American Hero” God Bless† † Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13 †