Obituary of Gerald William Long

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Gerald “Jerry” W. Long, 89, on July 30, 2023 at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital with loving family at his side. Born in Sydney, Jerry was the son of the late George and May (MacNeil) Long. Jerry worked for the City of Sydney for 49 years. He coached St. Joseph School hockey for 13 years. He enjoyed sports, especially hockey, swimming, boxing and going for walks and especially enjoyed watching his grandson play sports. Jerry is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mary S. (MacKinnon); son, Gerald W., Sydney; daughters, Dolena (Sheldon) Andrews, Shediac, NB, Mary (Gerard) DeWolfe, Howie Center; brothers, Charlie (Anne), Cameron, Georgie (Ruth), Jackie, Murray; sisters, Louise (Dave), Virginia (Joe) and Lala (Francis). He also leaves behind his five grandchildren, Keith Andrews, Sheldon and Sara Planetta, Keigan Long and Taylor (Long) Rizk, as well as eight great-grandchildren, Ethan, Ronin, Callum, Neil, Kai, Emmaline, Emily and Michael. Besides his parents, Jerry was predeceased by his daughter, Johnena Long, brother, Bobby, and sisters, Evelyn (Sis), Lilian, Vivian and Shirley. Gerald was a quiet, kind, loving husband, father and grandfather. Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 6 Churchill Drive, Sydney, NS, 902-539-7175. Visitation will take place in the funeral home on Saturday, August 5 from 11 am – 1 pm with service in the Chapel at 1 pm, Father Bill Burke officiating, reception to follow. Interment will take place on Tuesday, August 8, at 10:30 am in Resurrection Cemetery, Kings Road. Donations in Jerry’s memory may be made to a Charity of choice. Words of comfort may be made to the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com.