Philip Julian Long, 93, beloved husband of Nancy Lipps Baker Long, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, June 19, 2025.

Born in Bristol, Virginia, Phil was the son of the late Silas Theodosius Long and Verna Mae Corvin Long. A man of deep faith and conviction, he served for many years as an altar boy at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in his hometown. His commitment to service and leadership was evident early in life; he became an Eagle Scout in 1946, and his passion for scouting endured throughout his life as a dedicated and inspirational Scoutmaster.

Phil was an accomplished athlete and scholar. While attending Emory & Henry College, he earned 11 varsity letters in football, basketball, and baseball, and graduated in 1954 with a B.S. in Chemistry. He was later honored as a charter member of the Emory & Henry Sports Hall of Fame for his outstanding contributions, particularly to the basketball program. After serving his country in the Korean War, Phil continued his education and earned a B.S. in Industrial Engineering from Virginia Tech in 1959.

Phil had a long and successful career in industrial administration, respected by colleagues and admired by those he mentored. A proud and passionate supporter of the Virginia Tech Hokies, he was rarely seen wearing anything other than orange and maroon.

Above all else, Phil was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He and Nancy shared nearly 68 years of marriage, a bond strengthened not only by love but also by the rare joy of sharing the same birthday—six years apart. His family was his greatest source of pride and joy.

Phil is survived by his loving wife, Nancy; three sons, Philip, Michael, and Patrick Long; a daughter, Susan Smith; five grandchildren, Chris, Tommy, Nancy, Brad, and Andrew; and two great-grandchildren, Benny and Lorelai. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Alison Long, and his brother, Danny Joe Long.

Phil’s legacy of faith, service, and devotion to family lives on in all who knew and loved him.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Greenville (111 Hampton Avenue) on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.  Inurnment will follow in the church’s columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Foundation or the Dementia Society of America.