Lee Roy Long, 79, of Sylva, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. Born on May 30, 1946, in Jackson County, to the late Grinnell and Louise Long, Lee lived a life marked by quiet strength, curiosity, and deep devotion to those he loved. He served honorably in the United States Marines from 1963 to 1967 during the Vietnam War. In his later years, he found great pleasure in reading, traveling, and sharing time with his family.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Shirley Long; his son, Johnny Buchanan (Diane); his daughters, Jennifer Bright (Bobby) and Misti Webb (Robert); grandchildren Nicole Hannah (Hunter), Bo Webb, Andrew Boggs (Jessica), Chynna Wallace (Danny), Colby Buchanan (Adrienne), and Casey Buchanan (Brooke); and great-grandchildren Colton Boggs, Areli Wallace, Camden Buchanan, Makayla Buchanan, and Cadence Buchanan. Several nieces and nephews also survive him.
Lee was preceded in death by his parents, his son Jamie Buchanan, and his brother Grinnell Long Jr. He leaves behind a family that will always remember his steadfast presence and the love he so generously gave.
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