Robert William Long departed this life on Friday, February 15, 2013 after an extended illness. A native of W-S, NC, he was born April 6, 1921 and was a graduate of Atkins High School.

He was preceded in death by his adoptive mother, Mrs. Rosa Bell Long; daughter, Sandra McCracken; brothers, John, Aldolphus, Donald Howie, and Edward Neal Crowe; and his loving sister, Theresa Hanes.

Mr. Long is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Wilhelmina B. Long of the home; brother, Harold Howie of New Mexico; sister, Helen Alford of Phil., PA; two daughters, Barbara W. McCracken of VA and Linda Lindsay; two step-daughters, Andrais L. (William) Brandon and Constance Lawrence-Mitchell; one step-son, Don G. (Myrna) Lawrence all of the city; a devoted cousin, Dr. Constance (Victor) Johnson of the city and a beloved nephew, David (Thelma) Robinson of VA; seven grandchildren, Kim (Patrick) Banks, Brent (Aleashia) Brandon, Tamika Brandon, Terrance Lawrence, Donnell Lawrence, Chike Lawrence-Mitchell, and Amaka Lawrence-Mitchell; four great-grandchildren, Brandon (Marcelle) Banks, McKenzie Banks, Damian Brandon, and Tyler Brandon-White; and a host of nieces and nephews to cherish his memories.

In the early fifties he moved to Brooklyn, NY where he was employed by Rockefeller Center and owned and operated Coppertone Studio. There he began his involvement in community and social activities. His efforts to serve his community have included arranging housing for the homeless in Brooklyn, NY, assisting in the establishment of supplementary education programs, and special activities for neighborhood children.

After retiring from Rockefeller Center, NY and closing his business, he and his wife returned to W-S, NC. He renewed his membership with Mount Zion Baptist Church and he became an active member. He also reunited with the Camel City Elks Lodge #1021 where he served as secretary and Exalted Ruler, reaching highest level as Grand PGER. He also served on the Liberty CDC Board. Other involvements include: Emancipation Association/WSFC President Emeritus, Trustee/Chairman, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Emeritus, St. Marks Group and co-founder of Crossing 52.

Robert Long lived his life to the fullest. He enjoyed family, friends, music, avid newspaper reader, movies, politics and giving to others.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 20, 2013 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Final Rites Elks Lodge #1021 at 11:00am, Community Visitation at 11:30am, followed by services at 12:00noon.
The family suggests memorial gifts be made to the Diabetes/Heart Association in lieu of flowers.

"The man without a purpose is like a ship without a rudder-a waif, a nothing, a no man. –Thomas Caryle"