James ‘Ernie’ Earon Long, 59, of Springfield and formerly of Hillsboro, died on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Montgomery Nursing and Rehabilitation Facility in Taylor Springs.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, May 3, from 2 to 4 p.m. at VFW Hall in Springfield at 2211 Old Jacksonville Rd. Burial will be held in Rose Hill, VA, followed by a celebration of life on Saturday, June 6.
Mr. Long was born on March 2, 1967, in Harlan, KY, to Calvin and Margaret (Cupp) Long. He married Rebecca Ketchum in 1991 in Springfield and they later divorced. Later in his life, he got together with his companion of 30 years, Janet Werner of Litchfield.
Mr. Long worked as a small engine mechanic for 30-plus years and was known for his skills and service throughout the industry. This led him to attend many conferences and acquire many certifications.
Mr. Long enjoyed camping, being outdoors, watching NASCAR and spending time with family and friends. He will be remembered for being goofy, bubbly, bullcrapping, sassy and talkative towards everyone like they were his best friends. He also was known for helping family, friends and even strangers when needed.
Mr. Long is survived by his foster mom, Deloris Singer; his second father figure, Danny Barr; siblings, Otis (Barbara) Long, Ty (Nicole) Lacey, William Singer Jr., Peggy (Carl) Gill, Kathy Livesay, Elizabeth Earl, Sandra (Candice) Long, Norma Singer; children, Amanda (Matt) Rogers of Deltona, FL, Kelly (Brandon) Long of Berlin, Ashley (Michael) Adams-Long of Springfield, Chris Ketchum of Springfield, Halley Werner-Long of Hillsboro, Harmony Werner-Long of Hillsboro and Hayden Werner-Long of Hillsboro; and grandchildren, Steve Adkins Jr., Coltyn Adams, Brayton Clements, Colin Rogers and Lily Rogers.
Mr. Long was preceded in death by his parents, Calvin and Margaret Long; his brothers, Eddie Taylor and Lloyd Long; and his foster dad, William Singer.
