James E. Long

James E. Long, age 81, of Morristown, Tennessee, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 1, 2026. James was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Virginia Long; his parents, James H. Long and Amanda Pearl Long; and his brothers, David Long and Mike Long. He is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Lisa (James) Morgan and Traci (Ben) Hodges; his grandchildren, Veactoria “Shae” (Michael) Gibson, Matthew (Paige) Morgan, Nicholas Morgan, Jonathan Morgan, Jacob Morgan, and Abbey Hodges; and his great-grandchildren, Luke Morgan and Coraline Gibson. He also leaves behind his bonus great-grandchildren, Mason, Everleigh, Brantley, and Oakley. James is also survived by his brother, Dale (Sharon) Long; his brother-in-law, Billy Park; his sister-in-law, Brenda Long; as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. He was also lovingly accompanied by his faithful companion and best pal, Lucy, Momma’s Yorkie girl. James wore many hats throughout his life and was known for his strong work ethic. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany during the 1960s. Upon returning home, he began working at Magnavox, where he met the love of his life, Virginia. The two shared 52 wonderful years of marriage before her passing. Over the years, James worked as a construction worker, brick mason, tobacco farmer, gardener, mechanic, truck driver, and school bus driver. In the 1970s, he attended truck driving school in Atlanta, Georgia, and spent time driving an 18-wheeler alongside his cousins, Glenn and Chigger. No matter the job, James took pride in his work and provided faithfully for his family. For more than 33 years, he proudly served the Hamblen County School System as a school bus driver. Affectionately known as “Mr. Long,” he transported generations of students on routes throughout the county, including Alpha, East Ridge, Russellville, and East High. He concluded his career driving Bus #61, a role he cherished deeply. In retirement, James enjoyed watching NASCAR races, smoking Winston cigarettes, and spending countless hours watching Gunsmoke. Most of all, he treasured time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Their visits brought him immense joy and were among his greatest blessings. James will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His kindness, dedication, sense of humor, and unwavering love for his family will remain in the hearts of those he leaves behind. Please join us in celebrating a life well lived. Services will be held at Westside Chapel Funeral Home in Morristown, Tennessee, on Saturday, June 6, 2026. Visitation: 12:00pm-1:00pm. Funeral Service: 1pm. Military interment will follow at Hamblen Memory Gardens in the Garden of Everlasting Life.  -following service  @1:45/2pm. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Arrangements by Westside Chapel Funeral Home in Morristown.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James E. Long, please visit our floral store.