Mr. James Larry Long, lovingly known to most as JL, passed away on September 20, 2026, at the age of 79. Born on April 27, 1947, in Woodstock, Georgia, JL was the son of the late Earl Long and Thelma Mabry Long.

JL was a simple man in the most meaningful way. Tender‑hearted, humble, loving, and caring. He spent 29 devoted years with his late wife, Brenda, building a life filled with love, hard work, and family. He took pride in his carpentry and woodwork, finding joy in creating things with his hands. JL loved fishing, his Ford trucks, riding his tractor, building birdhouses, the color red, his overalls, and his chewing tobacco and the quiet moments that made life meaningful. His loyal dog, Sweetpea, was his best friend and constant companion. He was a devoted husband, father, and Paw Paw. Though the world may use the word “stepchildren,” JL never did, those were his girls, and he loved them as his own, without hesitation or difference.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Brenda Jean Long.

Left to cherish his memory are his son and daughter‑in‑law, Larry and Jessica Long; his daughters and sons‑in‑law, Lyn and Gerald Folds, Denise and Jon Shipp, and Christina and Richard Russell. JL is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 14 great‑grandchildren, and 1 great‑great‑grandchild, all of whom will carry his love forward.

The family will receive friends at Cagle Funeral Home on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, from noon until 9 p.m., and on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, from 9 a.m. until the service hour.

JL’s funeral service will be held in the Robert A. Cagle Memorial Chapel on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, with Gerald Folds officiating.

 Interment will follow at Sunrise Memorial Gardens in Jasper. Serving as Pallbearers will be: Larry Long, Corben Cantrell, Ricky Russell, Jesse Aldridge, Michael Entreken, and Nathan Shipp. 

JL lived his life with a tender heart, steady hands, and a love that never wavered. His kindness, his simple joys, and the way he cared for his family will remain in the hearts of all who knew him. Though he will be deeply missed, the love he shared will stay with his family forever.

Cagle Funeral Home is proudly serving the Long family.