Bobby Joe Long: Nakina

1938 – 2020

     Bobby Joe Long of Nakina peacefully entered Heaven’s gates on Nov. 20. He was 82.

     Born Sept. 6, 1938, he was the son of the late Henry Jow and Geneva Long.

     He was preceded in death by his two brothers, Guy “Buddy” Long and Winston “Tony” Long; and a granddaughter, Amber Long.

     Bobby was a graduate of Nakina High School class of 1957. He was a member of the Adult Sunday School class of Pine Level Free Will Baptist Church. He was a member of Simmons Bay Hunting Club where he enjoyed hunting and listening to his dogs. He worked most of his life as a construction worker and later retired from the Columbus County School system. He was a member with the North Carolina Dixie Youth Baseball and Softball Association serving 50 years as an umpire. He was a devoted North Carolina Tar Heels Fan.

     He is survived by the mother of his children, Betty W. Long of Nakina; two daughters, Debbie Ward (John) and Carol McDevitt (Vince) of Nakina; a son, Billy Joe Long (Amanda) of Nakina; grandchildren Hope Byrd (Joe), Amanda Davis (Greg), Justin Ward, Chris McDevitt, Nathan McDevitt (Morgan) Brandon Long and Dylan Long; step grandchildren Matthew Caison (Savanna) Gavin Caison (Megan) and Jordan Caison (Katie); great grandchildren Colby Byrd, Grace Byrd, Brianna Wright, Carson Davis, Marissa Burnett, Connor McDevitt, Parker McDevitt, Quinn McDevitt; and a special friend, Sarah Long.

     Family expresses great appreciation for all the kindness that has been bestowed on them during this difficult time.

     Funeral services were planned for 2 p.m. Monday, Nov. 23, in the Inman Ward Funeral Home Chapel, burial following in Ward Cemetery, Nakina.

     A guest register is available here.