Michael Long

Michael Ray Long, 69, of Danville, Illinois, passed away on August 30, 2024, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Champaign, Illinois, after a brief battle with advanced cancer. He was born on October 30, 1954, to Letha Darlene Grizzle and Freddie Ray Long.

Mike graduated from Carlyle High School, Kaskaskia College, and the University of Illinois, where he earned a degree in Computer Science. Following his graduation, he began his career at GTE Automatic Electric, where he wrote programs and contributed to building phone systems. He later took a position at Olney Central College, teaching computer science. Before retiring, Mike worked for the University of Illinois as a programmer for several years, making many lifelong friends throughout his career.

Mike was first married to Terri Guthrie, with whom he shared two sons, Christopher Michael and Zachary Ryan. They later divorced. He then married Barb Miller, and they also later divorced.

In his free time, Mike enjoyed woodworking, crafting model vehicles, fishing, taking long walks in nature in search of arrowheads, reading, and spending time with his family. He was a devoted fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and Liverpool F.C., and he loved discussing sports and books with his sons.

Mike is survived by his sons, Christopher M. Long and Zachary R. (Nicole) Long; his sister, Terri (Matt) Young; his brother, Jeff (Jill) Long; and his nieces and nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Letha Long.

Mike will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, September 6, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center 3940 N Vermilion Street in Danville, Illinois. Visitation will be from 9AM-10AM on Friday, September 6, 2024, at the funeral home. Interment will be at Carlyle Cemetery in Carlyle, Illinois on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Mike’s memory.

Please join Mike’s family in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center 3940 N Vermilion Street in Danville, Illinois is honored to be caring for the family.