Vernon Hale Long Jr.

Vernon H. Long, Jr. passed away, surrounded by family, at the age of 91. He was born in Big Sandy, Texas, to Vernon H. Long, Sr. (Pete) and Charlotte Seago Long. Vernon grew up in Melville, Louisiana, where he graduated from Melville High School before joining the United States Air Force. He served in Germany and Scotland for several years during the Korean War before returning to Louisiana, where he earned his degree from LSU in the ROTC program.

For over 45 years, Vernon worked as a self-employed insurance broker. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. In 1957, Vernon’s sister Marilu introduced him to the love of his life, Nancy Tolar, and they were married just six months later. The couple shared many joyful moments together, including fishing trips to Golden Meadow and travels across the country in their motorhome with their two daughters, Dawn and Karla. Some of their happiest years were spent at their home on Lake Verret. Vernon was also an avid golfer, enjoying rounds at various courses in Baton Rouge and North Carolina.

Vernon was the oldest son of ten (10) children and is survived by his wife of 67 years, Nancy Tolar Long; two daughters, Dawn Elizabeth Long and Karla Kathryn Houston, son-in-law, John David Houston; three grandchildren, Grant Fulton Odom, Anabelle Alesci Houston, and Molly Renee Houston; two sisters, Jane Wilkins of Baton Rouge and Ann Wallace (Jerry) of Waco, TX; and four brothers, Alvin Long (Diane) of Watertown, TN, Robert Long, Richard Long (Martha) of Baton Rouge, and Larry Long of Sanford, NC. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Kent and Charles Long, and sisters, Charlotte Merchant and Marilu Johnson.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Hospice of Baton Rouge, his nurse Debbie Sparacello, and his dedicated caregivers, Jackie Brue, Ashley and Melissa Smith, for their compassionate support.

Visitation will take place at First Baptist Church in Downtown Baton Rouge, Louisiana on Saturday, February 1, at 9 AM until Funeral Service at 11 AM. Burial will follow on Monday, February 3, at Louisiana National Cemetery at 11 AM.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a memorial donation to Disabled American Veterans (dav.org).