Fountain -

Dennis "Ray" Long, age 71, passed away on July 10, 2023, at ECU Medical Center in Greenville while surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Herman and Thelma Arnold Long; sisters, Theresa "Lynn" Long and Gail Poland; and brother, John Edward Long.

Ray was a hard-working man who loved the simple things in life.. He took pride in his work and as a master electrician he enjoyed using his skills and expertise to help others. Cooking was another area in which he excelled and he was fondly known to many as the 'family chef.' As a loving husband, father, grandfather and brother, Ray was devoted to his family and will be deeply missed.

Ray leaves a lifetime of wonderful memories for his wife, Sylvia Ezzelle Long; daughter, Jennifer Johnson (Stephen) of Florida; son, Michael Long (Lorie) of Wilson; step-daughter, Renee Dillon (Jeff) of Havelock; step-sons, Andy Hicks (Erin) of Indiana and Daniel Hicks (Amanda) of Nashville; sisters, Beverly Bulluck (Jimmy) of Rocky Mount and Ann Wilson of Florida; 13 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews along with extended family and friends.

He will be greatly missed by special friends, Sue Worthington and family, Bonnie Collins, Tom and Kathy Carnes, Rand and Ann Ward, Janice Bass, and Tommy and Jo Rita Lancaster.

A special note of thanks is extended to Ray's caregivers, Jayme and Cindy.

While floral arrangements are appreciated, you may consider memorial donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

A graveside service to celebrate his life will be held Friday, July 14, 2023, 2:00 PM, at Rocky Mount Memorial Park. The family will receive friends immediately following the service and other times at the home.