Ray Long

Ray Long, age 53, of Davidson, passed away the morning of Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24, 2023, at his residence. 

Ray called the Charlotte area his home for more than 20 years.  Originally, being a native of Woodbridge, Virginia, he spent many years playing baseball and graduated from Woodbridge Senior High School where he played football and was particularly proud of their 1984 freshman football team which had a season record of 8-0, 250 points for and zero against. He was known for his warm heart and care for others.  He attended West Virginia University and moved back to Northern Virginia area and started his career with Alpha Graphics in DC.  His work aspirations enabled him to live in Rhode Island, North Carolina and Wisconsin, where Ray broadened his circle of friends and those that consider him family. Known to reach out when traveling, he maintained friendships all over the country, many of whom have visited him at his home over almost three year battle with colon cancer.

The majority of his career was with Alliance Franchise Brands, in Plymouth, Michigan.  He was the Regional Director for the Atlantic Coast Region and was instrumental in winning many awards for his region during his tenure.  Once again, he forged close ties with his boss and coworkers who have treated him as family. Ray was a faithful believer in Jesus and a ministry partner with Lake Forest Church Huntersville since its inception. His faith has been an anchor during the last few years in particular and has been a witness to many friends and family.

Ray is survived by his wife, Ann Tury Long; son, Hunter Ray Long; mother, Dorothy E. Barrack (Ernie); father, Harold Ray Long (Betty); sister, Kristine Long Nelson (Louis); as well as a multitude of loving relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Friday, January 5, 2024, at Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home, 16901 Old Statesville Rd., Huntersville.  Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm, Saturday, January 6, 2023 at Lake Forest Church, Huntersville. Interment will follow at Mt. Zion Community Cemetery, Cornelius.  

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.KepnerFH.com.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Man Up to Cancer, Duke Cancer Institute or Lake Forest Church, Huntersville.