It is with extreme sadness that we announce the earthly transition of Thomas E. Long, who passed away on November 2, 2023. Born on November 28, 1941, to the late Mr. Nathaniel and Mrs. Pauline Long, Thomas grew up in a loving family in West Asheville. He graduated from Stephens Lee Class of 1961 and dedicated his career to Norfolk Southern Railway, where he worked as a skilled mechanic.

Thomas was a man of many passions and interests. He had an innate talent for bowling and enjoyed spending leisurely afternoons honing his skills on the lanes. Additionally, he was fond of card games and had a reputation as quite the card shark amongst his friends and family. An avid sports fan, Thomas held a special place in his heart for the NFL's San Francisco 49ers, always rooting for his beloved team.

Preceeding him in death are his siblings, Mildred Long Enloe, Leroy Howard Long and William Chester Long, Sr.; nephew, William Chester Long Jr. and niece, Donna Long.

Above all else, Thomas treasured his time with his family. After marrying his wife, Mrs. Helen Talbert Long, they shared 36 beautiful years. Thomas was a devoted father to his daughters, Ms. Dawn Raini Long and Marisa Gamble Carter (Jeff). He also embraced his stepchildren, Adrian Hill (Jodi), Tywana Hill, and Duron Hill (Amy), treating them as his own. His legacy lives on through his grandchildren, Sylvia Shaneen Long, Shanice Darity, Jerome Patton Jr., and Jermaine Patton, seven step-grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, eight step-great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter.

Thomas Longs' passing leaves a void in the lives of countless individuals fortunate enough to have known him. He will be deeply missed by his nieces and nephews, cousins, and his special cousin, Mamie Jean Machen. In remembering Thomas E. Long, we honor his unwavering dedication to his family, his zest for life, and his kind and gentle nature. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 9, 2023 at Jesse Ray Funeral Home, 1373 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville, NC at 1 p.m. with visitation of family and friends at 12:30 p.m. Burial will follow at Violet Cemetery in Asheville, NC.