John Edward Long's Obituary
John Edward Long entered eternal rest on Friday, February 27, 2026, at the age of 76.
John was born in Jacksonville, IL on March 27, 1949, to the late Elmer and Elizabeth Long (nee McManus).
John is survived by his children, Joan (Greg) Hillis, Jessica Long, Courtney Salcido Long, and Cassidy (Brian) Myers; grandchildren, Myles (Amanda) Gimbel, Emily Hillis, Adam (Dante) Hillis, Abby Gimbel, Peyton Fry, Henry Salcido and Lavie Kaya; great grandchildren, Charles, Layla, Madalyn, Cashous, Bonnie, and Emmett; sister, Mary Dobbs; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
John is preceded in death by his parents, and siblings, Betty Morris, Bill Long, Sr., Tom Long, and Richard Long.
John was loud and not one to be overlooked. He had a personality that was able to fill a room and leave his presence known no matter the setting he was in. Those who knew John knew that he had a specific way of stirring the pot and keeping everyone on their toes. His quick wit, sense of humor, and ability to make everyone laugh was something that will be cherished by many.
John wasn’t one for long speeches about feelings, but he made sure the people closest to him were well taken care of. If he sent you home with food, a cold beer, or something you “might need one day,” that was how you knew he truly loved you.
John loved to travel. New Orleans and Florida were two of his frequent stops. He was able to see a wide variety of the United States through his many years as a truck driver. He would be sure to find a good restaurant and always made friends with the locals which kept him going back.
Wherever he was, there was energy, laughter, and a story waiting to be told. And whenever “Big Bad John” plays, we’ll smile - because to us, he will always be our Big Bad John.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, March 15, 2026 from 1:00 - 4:00 pm at the AMVETS Post 100, 210 East Court Street, Jacksonville, Illinois in jacksonville, IL 62650.
Aquamation services provided by Hughes Funeral Alternatives in St. Louis, Missouri. Family and friends can sign an online guestbook at https://www.HughesFA.com
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