Hello Members and Friends of the Association, SGM(R) Vernon Long update per Ray Millican: If you can make the funeral, it is not necessary to wear a uniform, but please bring your berets.
Joe Pruett on behalf of Ed Pijuan President
Howell Vernon Long, Jr. was born in Athens, Georgia, on March 26, 1941, to
Howell Vernon Long and Elizabeth Marjorie Hodges. He passed away peacefully
in his sleep on October 6, 2023.
He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Marylee, as well as his son, Howell Vernon Long,
III (Melissa), Jacob David McKinney, Elizabeth Margaret Bowling, (Alan) and Michael
Allen Wayne McKinney, and 6 grandchildren.
Vernon grew up in Athens where he helped in his parents’ candy factory. After graduating
high school, he joined the US Army. He returned to Athens and entered the University of
Georgia, earning a degree in finance and real estate. He worked for a time in the physical
plant at the university, learning the craft which served him the rest of his life.
Vernon moved to Amelia Island in 1973 to work for the Amelia Island Plantation. He later
started his own construction business, specializing in new construction and renovations,
including several of the old residences in Fernandina Beach. He joined the Army National Guard
in 1979 and became Special Forces qualified, serving his country until his retirement in 2001.
He loved the Lord, his family, his country and his garden. He really enjoyed reading and watching
the Georgia Bulldogs.
Vernon’s family will receive friends Thursday, October 12, 2023 from 5:00 until 7:00 PM at
Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors.
Funeral services will be held Friday, October 13, 2023 at 11:00 AM in the Burgess Chapel of
Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests you consider donating to Amelia Community Theatre,
209 Cedar Street, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
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