Russell Raymond Long

   Russell R. Long, 69, of Fletcher, NC passed away Tuesday, November 14, 2017 at the VA Hospital in Asheville, NC. Russell was born on July 20, 1948 in Buncombe County, NC to the late Julian and Hazel Cates Long. He was a very loving husband, father and grandfather and will be greatly missed. Russell was a United States Air Force veteran during the Vietnam era and was an accountant for the Pasadena Unified School District. He also worked at Town Hardware in Black Mountain for several years. Russell was of the Christian faith and loved all kinds of music. He even had a band in high school. He also enjoyed hot air ballooning which he had a pilot's license for, making stained glass art, a Carolina Panthers fan and an avid bowler at Star Lanes. Russell also loved his kitty, Smokey. He is survived by his wife of 14 years, Charleen Meyer Long; step-sons, Charles (Saundy) Hutto of Monroe, NC and James F. Hutto III (Becky Sasser) of Swannanoa, NC; step-daughter, Amy Hagenlocher (Lt. Cdr. Mark Hagenlocher) of Alton, IL; six grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren. 
    A memorial service will be held at a later date at the Western Carolina State Veterans' Cemetery. Details can be obtained by contacting the funeral home. Penland Family Funeral Home is assisting the family. The online register is available at www.PenlandFamilyFuneralHome.com.

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