James Allen "Mickey" Long

James Allen Long (Mickey), 87, of Gainesville, Ga., was surrounded by family as he peacefully joined the Lord on January 20, 2021.

Mickey was born September 18, 1933, in Rabun County (Clayton), Georgia, to Duncan and Martha Godfrey Long. He attended Rabun County High School and continued his education at Young Harris College and Southern Polytechnic State University (formerly known as Southern Tech).

He began his career with the Georgia Highway Department in Clayton. In 1965, Mickey moved his family to Gainesville, joining the Southeastern Highway Construction Company. He went on to start his own construction business, J.A. Long, Inc., in 1984, and became instrumental in providing new road infrastructure throughout the Southeast.

Mickey was a pillar in the Gainesville community. Attendees of any Red Elephant sporting event saw him cheering in the stands with a Coca-Cola in his hand. His love of Gainesville High School led to his involvement in numerous projects and earned him an honorary degree. At Gainesville High baseball games, you would hear, “Get the Mickey Long Special”: a hotdog, chips and a Coke. His love of athletics also included supporting his Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets.

He donated his time to multiple organizations and made a positive impact on many lives throughout the community. Mickey was active with his church, First Baptist Church of Gainesville, and enjoyed spending time with his Anglers Sunday School class. His daily lunches at Long Street Cafe with his Romeo buddies (Retired Old Men Eating Out) created many enjoyable conversations.

Among his greatest passions was his family, which extended to include many close friends, who benefited from Mickey’s dedication, love and support. He loved large holiday gatherings at his home and would travel near and far to be at any event involving family.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Kat McClure Long, their children: Mike Long (Verna), Sandee Long Ray (Waymond), Jan Long, Kathy Long Hansard (Wade), Larry Long (Stefanie), Kim Long Gordon and nine grandchildren: Colin Ray, Nick and Cailan Long, Cooper and Sara Beth Hansard, Sofie and James Long, Scott and Ashlee Gordon. Mickey is also survived by his sister, Susie Long Daniel, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents, sisters Flogene and Sally, brother, Bill, and granddaughter, Kathryn Meyer Hansard.

There will be a private family graveside service on Sunday, January 24 at the Memorial Park Cemetery, followed by a Celebration of Life service at a later date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: First Baptist Church of Gainesville, 751 Green St, Gainesville, Ga 30501; Eagle Ranch, P.O. Box 7200, Chestnut Mountain, Ga, 30501; Good News at Noon, 979 Davis St, Gainesville, GA 30501; Gainesville High Athletic Association, 830 Century Place, Gainesville, GA 30501.

Those wishing to send online condolences to the family may do so at littledavenport.com

Little & Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory, 355 Dawsonville Highway, SW, Gainesville, Georgia 30501 is in charge of arrangements.