James Blaney “JB” Long

May 9, 1943 - April 7, 2023
James Blaney “JB” Long

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It is always difficult saying goodbye to someone you love. On Friday April 7, 2023 James Blaney “JB” Long, 79, took his last breath on earth and his first breath in Heaven. He was surrounded by the love of his family at his home.

James was born on May 9, 1943 the son of the late James Wiley Long and Mary Elizabeth Blanton Long, also preceded in death by a sister, Lelamae “Susie” Smith.

James was a veteran of the United States Army, proudly serving in the 16th Special Forces Group, Airborne, and 1st Special Forces also was a paratrooper. He worked for 19 years at Pilot Freight Carriers, then over 38 years with motion pictures. He was a member of the Teamster Union Local 391 and the IATSE Group.
Surviving is his wife of 63 years, Myrtle Hyatt Long of the home; his children, Jeff Long of Wilmington, Jan Long Burey and husband Steve of Rocky Point, Steve Long of Carolina Beach and Michael Long also of Wilmington; a brother, Ronnie Long of Alabama; seven grandchildren, , Savannah, Carter, Blaney, Dalton, Shane, Heather and Kandace; seven great-grandchildren, Spencer, Bayley, Nala, Maya, Dillon, Jr. Santana and Kaedyn; many other special family members and friends and Jingle Bell (cat).
James loved spending time with his family. He worked with his son at the motion pictures industry and then helping his other two sons with their business L&L Tent rentals. He always cherished his time with his daughter and coaching her with baton twirling and going with her to many events. James also enjoyed building and flying model airplanes with his son in law.

A celebration of Mr. Long’s life will be celebrated 1:00 PM Saturday April 15, 2023 at EUE/Screen Gems Studios, 1223 North 23rd Street Wilmington. Graveside services will follow at 3:00 PM in Greenlawn Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be the grandchildren, in honor of Mr. Long.

Memorials may be sent to the New Hanover Humane Society, 2405 North 23rd Street Wilmington, NC 28405.

Please leave memories and condolences for Mr. Long’s family by visiting the “Tribute Wall”

The family is deeply grateful for the support and care given by the angels provided by Lower Cape Fear Hospice.

Wilmington Funeral and Cremation Service


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  • April 17, 2023
    Steve Beach says:
    Heartfelt condolences to the Long family for such sad news. I am a long time friend of Steve Burey(JB's son in-law) and had the great opportunity to meet JB several times. I will always remember how he lit up watching Steve fly one of his remote controlled airplanes. A true joy. Steve told me how dedicated and loved he was at his job. Super work ethic. A good decent man. To Jan and family....cherish the memories. RIP JB !!

  • April 17, 2023
    Patricia Brehmer says:
    No words can express all the emotions being felt right now. All my love & hugs go out to the family as I know each & every one of them are going through their own set of emotions. Just remember,,,we will all be together again one day in Heaven. James was a special friend he loved his children with all his heart, He loved all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will surely be missed by all that knew him, RIP

  • April 15, 2023
    Rom Jenkins says:
    James was one of our country’s elite and a good friend and neighbor and I will miss him. My Condolences to all the family.

  • April 15, 2023
    Rachel Sawyer says:
    So sad to hear about JB passing. Praying for you & your family to find comfort & peace during this difficult time. Love you all.

  • April 15, 2023
    Patricia Brehmer says:
    No words can express all the emotions being felt right now. All my love & hugs go out to the family as I know each & every one of them are going through their own set of emotions. Just remember,,,we will all be together again one day in Heaven. James was a special friend he loved his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He wil surley be missed; RIP