James M. Long

James M. Long, 80, of Indian Orchard, died at his home surrounded by his family on May 17, 2024 . Born in Springfield, MA on Feb. 24, 1944, he was the son of the late John & Bernice (Lanier) Long. He was a 1963 graduate of the former Technical High School, where he was an All-Western Mass. goalie in hockey and All-City in soccer for two years. He was a member of the Springfield Sports Hall of Fame. Jim was an avid sports fan, and followed the Patriots, Bruins, Red Sox and the UCONN women’s basketball team.

He was an army veteran of the Vietnam War, and served from 1966-1968, where he was part of the 173rd Airborne.

Jim returned to Springfield and began a 33 year career as an Arson & Bomb Squad Firefighter for the City of Springfield until he retired in 2008.

He is the father of James M. Long, Jr. of Springfield, Ryan C. Long of Texas, Kimberly E. Moore and her husband Derek of Greenwood, SC, and the late Patrick M. Long and Ainsley J. Long, the brother of Patricia Danek of Springfield, Robert J. Long and his wife Nancy of Springfield, Paul C. Long and his wife Janet of East Longmeadow, and the late John B. Long and Donald E. Long. He is also survived by his five grandchildren, Vincent, Samantha, Parker, Sawyer and Ridge, his former wife, Lynda Lemanis of Springfield, his former daughter-in-law, Ashley Long of Chicopee, as well as many nieces, nephews and many lifelong friends.

Calling Hours for Jim will be held on Wednesday, May 29, from 4-7pm at Nowak Funeral & Cremation Services, 15 Ludlow Ave., Springfield. Committal Services with Military Honors will be held on Thursday, May 30, at 10am in the chapel at the MA Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 1390 Main St., Agawam (please arrive at cemetery between 9:30am – 9:50am).

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jim’s memory may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 516 Carew St., Springfield, MA, 01104. To leave Jim’s family an online condolence, please visit www.nowakfuneral.com

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