A Life Story

It is with profound sadness yet a celebration of a life beautifully lived that we announce the passing of Albert Jackson Long “Jack” known as Papa to his favorite people, who departed this world peacefully on June 10, 2026, surrounded by his cherished family at his home in Pooler, Georgia. Born on June 26, 1943, in the town of Jesup, Georgia, Jack graced this world with his presence for nearly 83 years, touching countless lives with his kindness, unwavering faith, and gentle spirit. Jack was the beloved husband of Betty Jean Long, with whom he shared a remarkable 61-year journey of love, partnership, and devotion. Married on October 16, 1965, their union was the foundation upon which they built a life filled with family, faith, and community service. Together, they raised two sons, Ken and Kevin , who were the pride and joy of his life. A proud alumnus of Robert W Groves High School, Class of 1962, Jack continued to serve his country with honor in the 165th Georgia Air National Guard. His dedication to duty and community extended beyond his military service, exemplified by his 66-year membership at Woodlawn Baptist Church. At Woodlawn, Jack was not just a member but a leader; he served as a Deacon and founder of the young married Sunday School Class which he taught for an impressive 40 years. He was also the first teacher to lead the children’s church ministry and he continued to do so for 16 years. His commitment to nurturing faith was matched by his passion for sports, as evidenced by his role in coaching the church’s little league baseball team and the men’s softball team, where his signature "high arc pitch" became legendary. Jack’s influence reached far beyond his immediate family and church community. Over the course of 14 years, he dedicated himself to coaching Pooler recreation football and baseball, imparting life lessons and values to countless young men, fostering both their athletic skills and their character. His enthusiasm for sports was only rivaled by his love for the great outdoors, where he found peace and joy in fishing and hunting. Jack’s life was a testament to living with purpose and grace. Known for always putting others before himself, he lived a life that honored his deep love for the Lord, his family, and his community. His gentle spirit and kindness will forever resonate with those fortunate enough to have known him. Jack is survived by his devoted wife Betty, his sons Kenneth (Sherri) and Kevin (Buffy), and his cherished granddaughters Tiffany Burns (Phillip), Marissa Lafeuillee (Anthony), and Kathryn Long. He had one great-granddaughter, Brooklynn. He is predeceased by his sister, Mary Ann Herring, and his passing leaves a void that can never be filled but is softened by the countless memories and the enduring impact of his life well-lived. In celebrating Jack's life, we remember his quiet strength, his gentle heart, and his unwavering faith. As we say our goodbyes, we do so with gratitude for the years we shared and the love we continue to hold in our hearts. The visitation will be on Saturday, June 13, 2026 from 12 noon until 2 p.m. at Woodlawn Baptist Church located at 407 Talmadge Avenue in Garden City, Georgia. The funeral to honor Jack’s life will follow at 2 p.m. in the sanctuary of the church. The graveside funeral and burial will be on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 2 p.m. at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens located at 315 Greenwich Avenue in Thunderbolt, Georgia. Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Homes - WEST CHATHAM CHAPEL (912) 748-2444