Marshall "Bud" Weston Long

Marshall "Bud" Weston Long, 87, of Bladenboro passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, August 19, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was born September 9, 1936 to the late John Lee and Hazel Memory Long.

 Bud joined the U.S. Navy after graduation from Bladenboro High School in 1955. He served aboard the USS Franklin D Roosevelt CVA-42. Upon leaving the Navy he joined the NC Nation Guard. Bud also began a career with Carolina Power & Light Company where he retired from after 36 years of employment.

 After retirement he spent many years volunteering with Bladen County Habitat For Humanity. A committed volunteer, he enjoyed working hard, and the fellowship with other volunteers, in making the dream of home ownership a reality for those less fortunate. For several years Bud was instrumental in working with the Bladen Baptist Association recruiting volunteers to help build wheelchair ramps, many of which he designed, for the needy throughout Bladen County. He also volunteered with World Changers of Bladen County, leading youth groups in assisting those individuals needing help in repairing their damaged homes. Bud was an integral part of Bladen County Dixie Youth Baseball in the 70's. He helped establish and coach a team in the Oak Grove community which his sons and other neighborhood youth could be a part of. They may not have won a lot of games, but he always enjoyed working with young people and keeping things fun.

Bud's later years were filled with time spent with his brother Jimmy doing carpentry work throughout Bladen County. Known for their quality workmanship and a honest days work, they had a steady request list until they both retired again. He was a lifetime member Sandy Grove Baptist Church and loved his church and church family. His faith ran deep, as did his dedication of service to God and the church. Throughout the years he served in many leadership capacities and was very passionate about the mission of the church, the grounds and building maintenance. A simple, hardworking, compassionate man with a giving heart and a goal to lead others to Christ. His legacy will continue to live on in the many hearts and lives he impacted during his time on this earth.

 Bud was a family man, he loved his family and his extended family. Devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, "Uncle Bud" and friend to many. No matter the occasion, if he were present there was certain to be laughter and a tale to be told. Even during his final days, he still had his sense of humor to share. 

 Left to cherish those wonderful memories are his beloved wife of 64 years, Sandra Kinlaw Long of the home. Sons; David Marshall Long of Raleigh, NC. and Daniel (Dan) Weston Long of Houston, TX. One grandson, Wyatt John Long of Venice, CA. Brothers; Jimmy Long(Delores) of Elizabethtown, NC, Ralph Long(Martha) of Bladenboro, NC, Stanley Long of St. Paul, NC. Brother-in-law, Reverend Grover K Blackburn, Jr or Angier, NC. Sister-in-laws; Shirley Hester of Lumberton, NC, Ann Long of Bladenboro, NC and Sherry Long of Bladenboro, NC, and his beloved furry companion "Bo".

 In addition to his parents, Bud was preceded in death by his sisters, Janice L Lewis and Rebecca L Blackburn. Brothers; John Lee Long, Jr., Currie Long, Sr., Horace Long and Donald Long.

 The Family will receive friends from 6 - 8 pm, Friday August 23, 2024 at Sandy Grove Baptist Church in Bladenboro. A Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday August 24, 2024 at Sandy Grove Baptist Church at 3 pm with the  Reverend Kevin Kinlaw and Reverend Jerry Beck officiating. Burial will follow the service at the Long Family Cemetery  in Bladenboro. 

 In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Sandy Grove Baptist Church, Bladenboro, NC in memory of  Marshall (Bud) Long. 

 The family would like to express it's sincere gratitude to the Liberty Hospice Services team. Thank you for your care, prescience and genuine concern for our whole family during this difficult time.