James "Jim" Long

Obituary

In Loving Memory of James Robert Long

James Robert Long, 53, of Largo, Florida, passed on June 2, 2025, after a fiercely fought, brief battle with cancer.

Born on March 12, 1972, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Jim grew up with a spirit full of adventure and curiosity. He graduated from Manheim Township High School and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, along with his Airframe & Power Plant License, from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. His love for flight and engineering was not just a profession, but a calling—one that he fulfilled with brilliance and passion as an aeronautical engineer.

Jim was the kind of person whose energy filled a room. His vibrant personality, infectious laugh, and easy smile made everyone feel welcomed and at ease. Whether it was on a skateboard in the streets of Strasburg or his home built half pipe, or steering his boat across open waters, Jim lived every moment with zest. He was a lover of the outdoors and an adventurer at heart—snowboarding, biking, scalloping, camping, diving for lobsters, and always seeking out the next thrill with his characteristic enthusiasm.

Above all, Jim was a devoted father. His daughters, Bailey (15) and Morgan (14), were the light of his life and his greatest pride. He cherished every moment spent with them, and the bond they shared was deep and unshakable.

He also leaves behind his and the girl’s beloved pets—Simba, Tobia, and his aquatic companions, Bob and Blob. Jim is survived by his father, Robert (Terry); his cherished brother and lifelong sidekick, Jeffrey; his dear siblings Christopher (Courtney), Amy (Justin) Ryals, Brad Keener, Mattie (Joy) Hohman, Mike (Shannon) Hohman, and Mike (Tara) Bauer. His loving partner and middle school sweetheart, Heather (Blaze) Leaman, stood by his side with unwavering devotion. He is also lovingly remembered by his Aunt Cheri and Uncle Robbie Hartmann, and his cousins, Andrea (Patrick) O’Brien and Nicole (Matthew) Stiner.

Jim was predeceased by his loving mother, Barbara, and his grandparents, whose memory he always held close to his heart.

To know Jim was to know kindness, generosity, and a deep joy for life. He was always the first to offer help, share a laugh, or plan the next adventure. He gave freely of his time and spirit, touching the lives of everyone he encountered.

Jim’s legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be missed deeply, remembered often, and celebrated always.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Thursday, June 19th from 7:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Anderson McQueen Funeral Home, 7820 38th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710. A Celebration of Life will follow from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Happy Lung Project supporting RET-positive cancer research at happylungsproject.org.