Robert Howard Long Jr. was born on April 14, 1954, in Martinsville, Virginia, to Robert H. Long Sr. and Frances Martin Long. At the age of 72, he peacefully departed this life at his residence, leaving behind cherished memories and a lasting impression on the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Robert was a beloved father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He was a man whose life was connected to family, faith, and the people who surrounded him. Though words can never fully express the depth of his loss, the love he shared and the memories he leaves behind will continue to live on through the generations of his family.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Howard Long, Sr. and Frances Martin Long; great-grandparents who helped raise him, Elder Josh and Eva Hairston; three sisters, Loretta E. Long, Karen Y. Stockton and Estelle Niblett.

As a father, Robert leaves behind his significant other of 38 years, Mary Hairston of the residence; his loving children, Vicki R. (Jay) Richardson of Martinsville, VA, Frederico A. (LaKeisha) Waller of Greensboro, NC, Shumecia L. (John) Rivalte of Martinsville, VA and Dante G. (LaTasha) Long of Martinsville, VA; His legacy continues through his 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, two bonus children, Cherie Lynn (William) Turner of Martinsville, VA and Tony Curtis Hairston of Greensboro, NC, who will carry forward the memories, lessons, and family connections that remain a treasured part of his life.

He is also survived by his sisters, Mary (Johnny) McAllister of Greensboro, NC, Connie Jones (Randy) and Alanna (William) Jamison both of Martinsville, VA; his brothers, Anthony Long, Sr. of Ridgeway, VA and Elder Earnest Long of Martinsville, VA; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever hold him close in their hearts.

Robert received his education at Laurel Park High School, graduating with the Class of 1972. His life journey brought him through many seasons, and those who shared a part of that journey will remember him in their own special ways. Every life leaves behind a story, and Robert’s story will continue through the family he loved the relationships he built, and the memories that time cannot erase.

Faith was an important part of Robert’s family legacy. He was a member of Greater New Bethel Apostolic Church. He retired from Trinity Mission Health & Rehab Center, Rocky Mount, VA. He was also a painter for many years. Robert also worked for Starling View Manor assisted living Facility.

A visitation service will be held on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. with the funeral service at 2 p.m. at the Greater New Bethel Apostolic Church, 933 Bethel LN., Martinsville. Interment will follow at Fairhaven Memorial Park, 18960 A. L. Philpott Hwy., Spencer, VA.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at Hairston Funeral Home, 301Fayette St., Martinsville between the hours of 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Other times, the family will receive friends at the residence, 808 Olympia St., Martinsville and at the home of his brother, Elder Earnest Long, 1118 Highland St., Martinsville between the hours of 3 p. until 8 p.m. daily. Live streaming of the funeral service will be available at Hairston Funeral Home live via Facebook.

Courteous, efficient and dependable services provided by Hairston Funeral Home.