Jerry Lynn Long

Jerry Lynn Long, 76, of Wilmington, North Carolina, passed away on March 10, 2026, following a ten-month battle with neuroendocrine cancer. Born on February 24, 1950, in Norfolk, Virginia, he was the son of Sgt. Montgomery Long and Mary Janet Formy-Duval Long.

He was predeceased by his parents. Jerry spent his formative years on the beaches near his home in Norfolk and attended Old Dominion University, where he played soccer. Upon completing his education, Jerry proudly served in the United States Navy as part of the Underwater Demolition Team during the Vietnam War. After nearly a decade of service, he settled in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Jerry enjoyed outdoor activities, particularly spending time at the beach, sunbathing or surfing, and playing golf. He also had a passion for college sports. Later, he relocated to Kentucky, where he raised a family and became an enthusiastic supporter of the University of Kentucky. Jerry valued his role as a stay-at-home father and cherished the years spent with his daughter, Hallie, especially while coaching her soccer team. He eventually returned to Wilmington, where he resided for the remainder of his life.

Jerry made a lasting impression within his community. He loved working at Seven Mile Post and was usually the first face that greeted you when you walked in the door. He was a friend to many and “Uncle Jerry” to most who knew him. He always had a “Jerryism” to offer for any situation. He enjoyed playing trivia, listening to live music, and socializing with friends from his perch at the end of the bar.

He is survived by his daughter, Hallie Long of Richmond, Virginia, and friends whom he considered family, Trevor Rice, Holly Abbuhl, Leon Felton, Karen Lea, Kim Hewlett, John Hewlett, and Luella Hewlett.

A Celebration of Life will be held in honor of Jerry on April 11, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. at Seven Mile Post, 7219 Market St., Wilmington, NC 28411. Family, friends, and all who knew Jerry are invited to attend and commemorate his life with refreshments and music.