Larry Lennis Long

Larry Lennis Long, 89, of Ira, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and man of unwavering Christian faith, he will be remembered for his strength, humor, selflessness, and deep commitment to those he loved. Born on January 13, 1936, to Herbert Long and Rena Adcox, Larry was raised with his sister, Evelyn, near Knoxville, Tennessee. As a young man, he proudly served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany from 1958 to 1960, where he carried out his duties as a tank operator with humility and honor. Family was the center of his world. After his discharge, Tennessee called him home to marry his beautiful bride, Mildred Marie Bailey. Larry and Mildred moved to Michigan in 1960 and soon after adopted and raised two children, Lennis and Melissa, in a home grounded in Christian faith. After Mildred’s passing, Larry found love again with his sweet and loving wife, Joyce Rickert, whom he married and welcomed into his heart, along with her family. Larry began his successful career as a professional truck driver shortly after moving to Michigan. He quickly became known for his consistency, reliability, and exceptional safety record. Over the years, he logged over 3 million miles and received numerous awards. Though he officially retired, his passion for the road brought him back twice—until he made his final truck stop at the age of 83. His dedication to hard work was unmatched, and his desire to keep going—even after retirement—was a true reflection of his character. When he wasn’t behind the wheel, Larry was faithfully rooted at First Baptist Church of Eastpointe. A dedicated member, he could often be found greeting, ushering, running the sound board, or occasionally making the coffee. His faith wasn’t just something he spoke about—it was something he lived daily. This was evident in the cross he proudly wore around his neck and the prayers he offered up for his family each night by name. Larry was the kind of man who never missed a family event—birthdays, graduations, or just Sunday dinners. His sense of humor was quick, dry, and often caught you off guard. He could fix just about any car, offer quiet advice when you needed it most, and had a way of making you feel safe just by being in the room. In his past-time, he loved fishing, camping, and family trips. He was well known for his storytelling, especially tales from his years on the road. He is survived by his wife, Joyce; his daughter, Melissa (James) Jolley; and five grandchildren—Quynton, Christopher, Katie, Jalissa, and Jason. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Rena; his sister, Evelyn; his first wife, Mildred; and his son, Lennis (Fran) Long. His memory will live on in the faith he passed down, the values he embodied, and the love he gave so freely. Visitation 2:00 - 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at the Wasik Funeral Home - Gendernalik Chapel, 35259 23 Mile Road, New Baltimore. Funeral Service 11:00 a.m., Thursday, August 7, 2025 in the funeral home. Graveside Service 10:00 a.m., Friday, August 8, 2025 at White Chapel Cemetery 621 W. Long Lake, Troy.

Larry Lennis Long

January 13, 1936 - August 3, 2025