Gene Eldon Long, 87, of Morgantown, passed away Monday afternoon, Sept. 30, 2019, at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital following a brief illness.
Gene was born at home in rural Michigan to the late Otto and Hazel (Aubaugh) Long on July 6, 1932.
As one of nine children, life on the farm was filled with hard work and funny events that fueled many stories. As work opportunities changed, Gene lived in Arizona for a brief time. On the way back the family home, the car broke down in Massillon, Ohio, where the family decided to then make their home. When the Korean conflict began, Gene enlisted and served as a radio mechanic.
After his time in service, he embarked on what became his life’s career. Starting as a surveyor, he put forth his unbreakable work ethic and pride in every job. Over the years, he transitioned into the supervisor role in road construction. Throughout the years, he supervised road construction projects in Ohio and all over West Virginia, including locally I-68 and Rt. 705. Over the years, he worked for Harry Miller, L&R Skelton, JML and General Paving. After retiring, he worked for Senior Monongalians as a driver and supervisor of transportation.
During the construction of I-68, he met Geneva, the lady that became his love and partner in life for 45 years. They joined their families in 1974. Through ups and downs, raising kids and all of life’s challenges, their soundtrack became “Easy Loving” by Freddy Hart and “Pure Love” by Ronnie Milsap.
Gene has always been proud of his eight children. As the family expanded with marriages and grandchildren, his love and pride for them expanded as well. He often shared stories of his 18 grandchildren to anyone who would listen.
Gene is survived by his wife, Geneva Louise Taylor Long; eight children, Marty and wife Amy Long, of North Canton, Ohio, Vicki and husband Aaron Lewis, of Morgantown, Ken and wife Patti Darnell, of Mt. Sterling, Ky., Gary and wife Sandy Darnell, of Bruceton Mills, Rick and wife Brenda Darnell, of Bruceton Mills, Jeff and wife Mary Darnell, of Morgantown, Dan Darnell, of Front Royal, Va., and Pam and husband Rex Rosenberger, of Bruceton Mills; 18 grandchildren and one great-grandchild; a sister, Betty and husband Earl Lilliefield, of New Philadelphia, Ohio; and his beloved fur babies, Bandit and Peaches.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Eileen Hogoboom, Evelyn Arquilla, Russell Long Sr., Ike Long, Walt Long and two juvenile sisters.
Family and friends are invited to a gathering to honor Gene’s life and legacy at the home of Jeff and Mary Darnell, at 1489 Grafton Road, Morgantown, from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6. This gathering is informal, light refreshments will be offered and casual attire is requested.
Gene’s request to be cremated and have his ashes scattered at Myrtle Beach at a later date will be honored by his family.
Professional services are being provided to the family with the guidance of Smith Funeral & Cremation Care of Westover/Morgantown.
Condolences: www.smithfcc.com
