John Long Obituary

John C. Long, 82, passed away peacefully, with his loving family by his side, on Thursday, March 12, 2026, in Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, after many years of illness.

"Jack" was born in Wilkes-Barre on Dec. 3, 1943, and resided in Sugar Notch for over 50 years. He was the son of the late Raymond "Buzzy" Long and Arline (Bell) Long of Ashley. He graduated from Hanover Township High School in 1961 and was employed by the Luzerne County Housing Authority for many years.

John was a caring husband, dad, grandpa and Pop-Pop, who loved spending time with his family. He enjoyed travelling to his favorite vacation spot in Wildwood Crest, N.J. every summer for over 40 years, a lasting tradition that the family will continue in his memory. John was an avid New York Yankees fan and loved to watch the PGA Tour. One of his most cherished memories was a trip he made to the Masters in Augusta, Ga. with his two sons, John and Jim, and son-in-law, Jim McGovern.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Kelly (Long) McGovern, and brother, Raymond Long.

Surviving are his high school sweetheart and wife of nearly 62 years, Sherlene (Kowak) Long; son, John C. Long Jr. and his wife, Denise, of Schnecksville; son, Jim Long and his wife, Jennifer, of Randolph, N.J.; son-in-law, Jim McGovern of Hanover; grandchildren, Kaitlin Long of Fogelsville; Greg Long and his fiancée, Colleen Tygh, of King of Prussia; Michael Long of Philadelphia; Sara Voitek and husband, Ted, of Swoyersville; Josh McGovern of Hanover; Matthew and Kevin Long of Randolph, N.J.; and great-grandchildren, Elizabeth and Oliver Voitek of Swoyersville, and Hudson Long of King of Prussia.

In accordance with John's wishes, funeral services will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are entrusted to George A. Strish Funeral Home, 105 N. Main St., Ashley.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John's memory to McGlynn Learning Center, Wilkes-Barre, at www.mcglynncenter.org.