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Condolences:

Jeff Horton

Vernon was good friends with parents when I was growing up. He was also one of my first bosses employing me on his construction crew when I was 16; and built my parents house down in Amelia City. Very sad to hear of his passing.

Tom & Jeanette Krygowski

We are so sorry to hear about Vernon . He was such a great man and Tom really enjoyed working with him . our thought and prayers to his wife and family .

Dan Y. Howison

Mr. Long was a farmer in the sense that he hypothetically planted and nourished seeds in some of us young men. I know there are several of us who went on to live productive and successful lives. Im sure there are a lot more that I dont know about who can look back and see the impacts Mr. Long made in them. Hopefully we can all carry on his work.

Judith H. Turner

Our Dave Turner Plumbing family had the privilege of working with Vernon and calling him our friend. To his family always think of him as your comfort in your darkest moments. Your companion in your illuminated ones and your eternal inspiration.

Kyle Harth

Twelve years after SGM Long joined the Special Forces, I too became a part of the same organization. Vern was a huge part of welcoming me into that Brotherhood and his mentorship was instrumental in developing me into a Special Forces Soldier. His calm and jovial manner was always a welcome addition to our formations. I thoroughly enjoyed my ten years spent with him in that organization and was both saddened to see his experience and knowledge leave, while being happy to see him move into retirement to continue on with the rest of his life. His patriotism was unwavering, and he will be sorely missed by all of us who were lucky enough to serve with such a fine man. Di Opresso Liber SGM.

Mrs. Kravitiz

Vernon and Marylee Long were two of the first persons I meet upon moving to Amelia Island in 2008. We worked and played together on scores of productions at Amelia Community Theatre. Not countless show, because I will always remember every single one, especially "Annie." I will miss Vernon very much.

Frank & Joanne Boria

So, so sorry for your loss. We will miss him as well.

Marsha Joyner

Vernon was one of the first people we met when we moved here twenty five years ago Always had a smile and laugh. He was so talented, could do anything He had a life well lived and will be missed

Michele Romano

Such a great man! My heart hurts for his loving family. He never judged me for my poor woodworking skills. He kindly fixed all my mistakes and made me feel as if I did a good job trying. He had an amazing garden and shared the produce with the community. I still have sauce in my freezer from the basket of tomatoes he gave me. He will be missed dearly.

Janice O' Connell

What do you say about a man who has been the best friend anyone could ask for? For the last 30+ years we would make sure to talk about our lives , our spouses and what book we were reading. Most of the time we would end up laughing at ourselves about something. I will miss him , but will cherish our friendship and try to pass on his kindness .I will see you when God calls my number . Love you !

Nick Isabella

I had alot of respect for this man he certainly was not afraid of work

Jennifer Webber

It was my great pleasure and privilege to have Vernon as my set construction genius on several productions. His good humor and great talents made collaborating so much fun. I will miss his ready smile and wit. He contributed to many causes throughout the community and will be sorely missed. Please know that you are in my thoughts.

Bobby Pickren

Marlee, I'm so sorry to hear about Vernon.Worked for him several years and were friends for a lot more. Time and distance has kept us from being in contact together. He will be missed. Prayers for you.

Howell Vernon Long, Jr.

2023-10-06

Howell Vernon Long, Jr. was born in Athens, Georgia, on March 26, 1941, to Howell Vernon Long and Elizabeth Marjorie Hodges. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 6, 2023.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Marylee, as well as his son, Howell Vernon Long, III (Melissa), Jacob David McKinney, Elizabeth Margaret Bowling, (Alan) and Michael Allen Wayne McKinney, and 6 grandchildren.

Vernon grew up in Athens where he helped in his parents’ candy factory. After graduating high school, he joined the US Army. He returned to Athens and entered the University of Georgia, earning a degree in finance and real estate. He worked for a time in the physical plant at the university, learning the craft which served him the rest of his life.

Vernon moved to Amelia Island in 1973 to work for the Amelia Island Plantation. He later started his own construction business, specializing in new construction and renovations, including several of the old residences in Fernandina Beach. He joined the Army National Guard in 1979 and became Special Forces qualified, serving his country until his retirement in 2001.

He loved the Lord, his family, his country and his garden. He enjoyed reading and watching the Georgia Bulldogs.

Vernon’s family will receive friends Thursday, October 12, 2023 from 5:00 until 7:00 PM at Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors.

Funeral services will be held Friday, October 13, 2023 at 11:00 AM in the Burgess Chapel of Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you consider donating to Amelia Community Theatre, 209 Cedar Street, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

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