Robert Paul Long, age 82, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away peacefully at Christiana Hospital on December 1, 2022, after succumbing to pulmonary fibrosis. Born in Wilmington, Delaware in July of 1940, Bobby enjoyed traveling, socializing with friends, and spending time with family. Bobby graduated from Brown Vocational High School and was a member of the Delaware Air National Guard, as well as the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America.
Bobby founded Healy & Long Concrete Contractors in 1977 with Jack Healy and had a long, successful career as President of the company, building landmark structures throughout Delaware, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. After retiring, Bobby especially enjoyed traveling to his favorite beaches, including Rehoboth Beach, Naples, and the Isle of Jersey.
Bobby was known for his immense love of life, his kind and loving manner, and his tenderness to everyone he met, including and especially his dear friends and family. He also thought he was a gifted dancer and loved his music loud.
He was preceded in death by his parents John and Emma and brothers, John Jr., Richard, and Frederick. He is survived by his loving wife for 29 years, Carole Shepherd Long, and was a devoted father and stepfather to Robert Long Jr., Michael Long, Jennifer Shepherd Cooper, and Christopher Shepherd and their spouses. “Potsie” was an unforgettable presence to his ten grandchildren, who brought him never-ending joy.
The family would like to express our special thanks to the wonderful nurses, doctors, and staff at Christiana Hospital, and to all the medical professionals that helped him throughout his life. The greatest gift Bobby left his family was teaching and living out the need to love a little harder, love unconditionally, give grace to others and be kind. We are blessed to have been left with these gifts to nourish and share with others. His life is not over. It will continue through each person he touched in a valuable way.
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