Howard Long

Howard Wayne Long, 78, of Hardin, Illinois, died September 18, 2026, at Evercare of Calhoun.

He was born at home on April 10, 1948, in Hamburg, Illinois, the son of Spencer V. and Minnie (Blackorby) Long.

Howard was a welder by trade and worked in the timber business for many years. He enjoyed raising chickens and growing a garden. He also owned a pecan cracking machine and especially enjoyed the visits that came with it. He looked forward to seeing the people who brought their pecans to him and spending time visiting with them while he cracked their pecans.

He is survived by his son, Mike (Vicky) Long; three grandsons, Dan (Trish) Long, Ryan (Heather) Long, and Luke Long; five great-grandchildren, Stephen, Phillip, James, Tatum, and William Long; his brother, Herbert Long; two sisters, Joyce (Jerry) Bland and Lois Charlton; and his longtime companion, Susan Parker.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his infant son, Daniel Joseph Long; three brothers, Paul Long, Edward Long-, and Spencer O. Long; and two sisters, Bernita Dunham and Betty Fugate.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until time of service 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 2, 2026, at Gress, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Hardin, Illinois. Burial will follow at Indian Creek Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to Indian Creek Cemetery.

Online condolences can be made at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.