It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Col. James Henry “Pete” Long, 89, of Newport. He departed this life on July 20, 2024. He was born in Newport on November 4, 1934, to Mr. Arvle “Jack” Long and Mrs. Jessie Dean Long.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Wife Charlene Darling Long, son James Michael Long, great-granddaughter Catherine Grace Long of Newport and stepson Stephen Montgomery.
He will forever be remembered by his wife Mrs. Betty Sullivan Long of the home, son John Patrick Long (Deborah) of Jonesboro, stepson Lance Morris of Jonesboro, stepdaughters Stephanie Creech of Missouri and Shellee Tolice Morris of Jonesboro and Deanna Long Sullins of Newport.
Grandchildren Johnathan Dunn of Searcy, Melissa Moore (Nick) of Cash, Brittany Samaniego (Luke) of Swifton, Josh and Nicole Long of Tuckerman, great-grandchildren Caden Dunn, Sawyer Dunn, Lily Sterling & Kambrie Moore, Gatlin & Guage Long. He leaves behind a host of friends and was so proud to live in Newport.
Col Pete Long retired (November 4, 1994) from the Arkansas National Guard, Branch of the US Army, on September 2, 1990. He was placed on the inactive list until his 66th birthday. Pete was a young soldier who successfully guarded President Kennedy in September 1963 at the John F. Kennedy Park Dedication. He ended his career as a retired manager for the Bunge Corporation. He lived a life filled with love, laughter, and a deep commitment to his family and military. Throughout his years, he exemplified integrity, generosity, and a boundless compassion that resonated with everyone he encountered. Pete cherished the simple pleasures of life, finding joy in spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, camping, playing golf, and loved gardening. He had a huge heart for animals. Taking care of them as they crossed paths. His wisdom and guidance were invaluable, shaping the lives of those he held dear to his heart.
Visitation will be Tuesday, July 23 from 5:00-7:00 pm at Dillinger Funeral Home. The funeral will be at 2:00 Wednesday, July 24 at Dillinger Funeral Home.
Those to serve as pallbearers: Johnathan Dunn, Richard Johnson, Lance Morris, Stephen Casteel, Darrell Layton and Luke Samaniego.
Honorary pallbearers are the employees of White River EMS. Also, a heartfelt thank you to all the staff of The Blossoms of Newport for taking good care of Col Pete.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Jackson County Humane Society.
