SHALLOTTE — Gerald Lee Long, 83, passed away peacefully Sunday morning, Jan. 6, 2019. Gerald was born Oct. 30, 1935, to parents, Benjamin Lee and Mary Blair Long, in Newberry, South Carolina.
Gerald was preceded in death by his beloved son, Wayne, in 2017; and sisters, Linda Mayer and Marsha Greer.
Gerald is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Freeda Stockman Long, and their daughter, Renee Long of Goldsboro. Also left to cherish Gerald’s memory are his five grandchildren, Jarred of Boston, Forrest of Raleigh, Zac (Jessica) of Raleigh, Ben of Wrightsville Beach and Caleb of San Diego; daughter-in-law, Tanya; great-grandson, Grady; and siblings, Betty, Joel, Sylvia, Phillip and Karen.
Gerald and his wife relocated their family in 1970 to serve the community of Shallotte with a series of successful independent grocery stores. Garnering the respect of the community as a fair and reasoned businessman, the citizens of Shallotte elected Gerald to two terms as the town’s mayor. Gerald also served on the boards of Brunswick Electric and Bank of North Carolina.
Gerald will be remembered as a man of humble beginnings who dedicated himself so that future generations would be provided greater opportunities in life. Gerald’s larger-than-life personality is an example of strength and wisdom; he died as he lived, with honor, dignity and his ever-present persistence. He will be remembered for his service to the community and his integrity and compassion for others. His was a life of love and inspiration.
The family will receive friends from 4 to 6 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 9, at Brunswick Funeral Service, 5229 Ocean Highway West, Shallotte. A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 10, at Camp United Methodist Church, 4807 Main St., Shallotte, with the Rev. Dr. Won Namkoong officiating. Entombment will follow in Brunswick Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Camp United Methodist Church, Building Fund, 4807 Main St., Shallotte, NC 28470.
Special thanks to the staff of Well Care Health and Universal Healthcare.
Share online condolences with the family at Brunswick Funeral Service.
