Homer David Long, Jr.

In Loving Memory

Homer David Long, Jr, (Danny), 77, born April 12, 1948, passed away at home on April 8, 2025 after a three year battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. He leaves behind his wife of 42 years, Mary Martin Long, their daughter, Danielle Denise Long. His son, David Brian Long (Heather) grandson, Jacob David Long, and granddaughter, Loren Ann Long, Sister-in-law, Cynthia Faye Martin,(who called him, Brother Bear), Niece, Amber Nelepolvitz (Brandi), and their children, Aeron Smith (Frank) and their children. Along with many cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his mother, Letha Long, father, H. D. Long, Sr., two brothers, Donnie Long Timothy Long and niece, Ashley Ryan Gibson.

As a teenager, he worked for his Uncle Hoyt as a laborer and also worked in chicken houses to help his mother buy a car. Later, he applied for a job at Allied Signal as a forklift operator. While working there, he received notice from the United States Army that he had been drafted into the service and would be required to serve for six years. After finishing basic training at Fort Jackson, he was transferred to Fort Eustis, Virginia, then Fort Leonard, Missouri to complete his training. From there it was off to California and then Hawaii. Next thing he knew, he was on a plane headed to Viet Nam. Danny was stationed at Plieku, Viet Nam and served from 1969-1970, in the H.H.C. 1" BN,. 35* and 4th infantry divisions.

During his yearlong tour in Viet Nam, he was a cook for the troops at Landing Zones and other bases in country. At the time of discharge, he had achieved the designation of SP 5. His running joke about his time in Viet Nam was, he may have been a cook, but he still pulled guard duty, had to go on night patrols, and ducked when the red tracer bullets started flying. After returning home, he was status transferred into the reserves to serve out the remainder of his duty years and was honorably discharged on August, 1, 1974. Once back home, he returned to his job at Allied Signal. He worked there for 44 years and then retired.

Danny enjoyed being outside working in his yard, taking long walks, and playing with his lab, Bella. He loved to go fishing with his wife and family. He and his wife deer hunted together and were avid campers. He enjoyed sitting around a campfire and roasting hot dogs and marshmallows. After tent camping for 25 years, they graduated to a camper. They camped all over South Carolina and went to the mountains every chance they could get. Their love of camping was passed down to their family who camped with them often. Danny and Mary were always up for an adventure. Once diagnosed with AML, as he became sicker, his camping days were over. Daytime excursions, picnics, and time spent together were a great substitute.

He was a lifetime fan of the Carolina Gamecocks and enjoyed NASCAR racing. A Saturday night at the local dirt track with his buddy, George Peloso, was what he called "a great night out". He also enjoyed deer hunting with his son, Brian and spending time with his grandchildren; making them laugh by doing what he called "The Old Man Dance" and talking like Donald Duck.

The family has requested donations be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Wounded Warriors, or Plant A Tree in his memory. Many thanks to Amedisys Hospice Care for all their help, empathy, and support.

Loved by friends and extended family," Brother Bear", "Uncle Duck", and "Homer D", will be forever missed.