"Tommy" William Thomas Long

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved “Da,” William Thomas (Tommy) Long, who passed away peacefully at his home in Point Aconi, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Point Aconi, he was the son of the late William Long and Annie Mae (Dawe) Long.

Tommy leaves behind the love of his life, Valerie, his devoted wife of over 50 years. Whether sitting together in their chairs watching Wheel of Fortune or sharing a quick waltz around the living room, they were true partners in every sense. Valerie never left his side, caring for and loving him until the very end.

Da was a caring father to his children, Annie (Steve) Greene, Russell, and Sheila (Rick) Dicks, and a loving Poppy to his grandchildren Megan, Tylor, and Kaley, who thought of her Poppy as a dad. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Shae, Sylas, Siblings, Patsey, Bobby (Brenda), David, James Elmer (Mary), Mary Ann, all of whom he loved dearly.

He was predeceased by his parents and his siblings Francie, Wilena, and Joseph.

Da also had a very special place in his heart for his “third daughter,” Wena, and Billy, who were like family to him and always there at the drop of a hat to lend a helping hand.

During his life, Tommy held many professions — from working at General Motors and Hardigan’s to eventually accepting a position with Marine Atlantic, where he worked proudly in the machine shop for 27 years and never missed a single day.

After retirement, Da spent his time doing what he loved most — being in his happy place, the garage, surrounded by his longtime friends, especially Jimmy and Gordie, dressed in his favorite “grease clothes.”

Da was well known across the island for his wisdom, skill, and reputation as a true jack of all trades. Tommy Long was the guy!

He may have been a man of few words, but when he gave you his word, it was golden. With his infectious smile and quick wit, Tommy could win anyone over in a heartbeat. Even through his courageous battle, that smile and humor never faded — he was always up for a bit of devilment.

Da found joy in the simple things in life. He loved snowmobiling, hunting, camping, and spending time in his woodshed. Most of all, he cherished being present with his family — the people who meant everything to him.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Alexander Wawer and the members of the VON support team, especially Karen, as well as the Palliative Care Team, particularly Julia Penny, our guardian angel who went above and beyond for us. Your kindness and compassion will never be forgotten. Da always looked forward to your visits.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Bras d’Or, with a luncheon to follow in the church hall. The family welcomes all who knew him to attend and celebrate his life.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of "Tommy" William Thomas Long, please visit our floral store.