Rev. Donald V. Long

September 7, 1937 — March 19, 2024

Rockford

Reverend Donald Vaughn Long, 86, of Rockford, passed away on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, with his family by his side. He was born on September 7, 1937, in Denver, CO, the son of Vaughn and Frances (Cochran) Long. He married his devoted wife, Janis (Jones) Long on June 11, 1960, in Caryville, TN.

Don was a United Methodist minister who dedicated 42 years of his life to the church before retiring in 1999. He received his Master of Divinity from Vanderbilt University after completing his bachelor’s degree at Tennessee Tech. During his career, Don served at several Rockford-area United Methodist churches including Grace, Harlem, Broadway, and Christ the Carpenter. He also served as minister at Steward and Creston United Methodist churches near Rochelle. Don was beloved by his congregations for his gentle demeanor, his ready sense of humor, and the kindness and respect he showed to everyone.

Don was very active throughout his career participating on many councils and committees. One of his most interesting experiences came in 1978 when he served on an ecumenical delegation to China, which was the church’s first mission to that country since the last American Methodist missionary departed 26 years earlier.

In his free time, Don enjoyed cycling, gardening, wandering around the hardware store, cheering for the Chicago Bears, and doing the Register-Star crossword puzzle in pen. He was a life-long learner who spent many hours at the Rockford Public Library doing research for his sermons.

Don is survived by his wife, Janis, his children David (Liz) Long of Cambridge Springs, PA, Scott (Nkechi) Long of Fort Worth, TX, and Beth (Eric) Jones of Rockford, and grandchildren Nathaniel, Sasha, Audrey, and Allissa. Don is predeceased by his parents and his brother, Douglas Sherwood Long.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held this summer. The family wishes to thank Northern Illinois Hospice and Bickford of Rockford for their care and professionalism. Family assisted by Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory. Please express online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Rev. Donald V. Long, please visit our flower store.

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