James "Jim" Long

James "Jim" C. Long 72, of Pinellas Park, FL passed away peacefully at home Tuesday, June 2nd under the care of Hospice. He is predeceased by his father Frank Xavier, mother Lucille J. Shine and sisters Alice DeFontes and Jeanne Gronski. Jim is survived by his loving wife Nancy, "second wife" Roxy Craig, sons James F. Long (Jamey) and Paul Craig; brothers-in law Paul Gronski, Joe (Diane) Hillengas, Donnie (Mona) Hillengas, Richie (Diane) Hillengas, Timmy Hillengas and Buddy Hillengas; sisters-in-law Marie "Sissy" (Larry) Bryant and Eileen (Jerry) Franklin; nephews John Mears Jr. (Susan), Joey Franklin, Shawn Hillengas, Ricky Hillengas, Greg Hillengas; nieces Kelly (Tommy) Jarriel, Julie Davis, Angela Sine-Paparella (Mike), Karen Franklin, Tammy Dodson and Anne Perez; numerous extended family members and countless friends. Jim was a Navy veteran (RMSN E-3) 1960 - 1964 and worked as a letter carrier for the Pinellas Park Post Office for 30 years before semi-retiring. Jim could never sit still for very long so he decided to start installing tile and laminate flooring for family and friends which he continued until his illness prevented it. He was a member of the American Legion Post 104, N.A.L.C Branch 1477 and Sacred Heart Church. Jim loved his family more than life itself and was always there in whatever capacity was needed to help and support all of us. A man of impeccable honesty and principles, no one ever had to wonder where they stood with him. He never met a stranger and couldn't go anywhere without striking up a conversation or offering his help, no matter the situation. He loved fishing and boating but especially enjoyed hunting in Georgia with his best friend Paul Gronski; 2 peas in a pod. Jim was as unique as a Pinta Island Tortoise. There will never be another like him. He will be missed more than words could possibly express. There will be a memorial mass held at Sacred Heart Church - 7809 46th Way N Pinellas Park - Saturday, June 20th at 11:00am followed by a reception at the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, Jim would like donations made to either Suncoast Hospice of Pinellas - 5771 Roosevelt Blvd., Clearwater, FL 33760 or Sacred Heart Catholic Church - address listed above.