Ronnie Olin Long

Mr. Ronnie “Ron” Olin Long, 80, of Winston-Salem, passed away on August 29, 2025.

Ron was born on February 26, 1945, to the late Olin Webster Long and Pauline Eddinger Long. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Jerry Webster Long.

He was further preceded in death by his wife, Velna “Janet” Koontz Long. They were married on August 13, 1966, and shared 57 years together. They made their home in the Midway community, only a short distance from Ron’s childhood home. During Ron’s service in the U.S. Air Force, he and Jan also lived in New Mexico and Germany, creating many memories together.

A graduate of North Davidson High School in 1963, Ron later attended Wake Forest University before beginning his Air Force service in 1966.

He devoted much of his career to serving Davidson County and surrounding areas through insurance sales. Later, he enjoyed a fulfilling role at Modern Nissan of Winston-Salem, where he helped friends old and new find the right vehicle for their families. He worked there until choosing to remain at home to care for his beloved wife during her declining health. Ron was deeply devoted to her, attending to her every need with love and compassion.

Ron loved the outdoors. He was an avid golfer and deer hunter, and enjoyed pier fishing along the North Carolina coast. He found joy in supporting his grandsons at their athletic events, especially baseball games, and loved watching his grandson, Parker, ride at Horsepower Therapeutic Learning Center. Ron also treasured the companionship of his little dog, Lucky, who often rode with him on visits to local businesses and restaurants. He was a member of Bethany United Church of Christ.

Ron is survived by his son, Mark Long (Christy) of Winston-Salem; his daughter, Alyson Roy (Jeff) of Summerfield; and six grandchildren: Parker, Conner, and Drew Roy, Bryson Long, Jackson Palmer (Emily), and Madison Carroll (Nolan). He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Phyllis Long, and nephews, Jeffrey Long (Michele) and David Long (Marie).

The family will receive friends on Monday, September 1, at 10 a.m. at Davidson Funeral Home, 858 Hickory Tree Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27127. A celebration of life will follow at 11 a.m.. in the Chapel. A private graveside service will be held at Bethany United Church of Christ.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Barbara Smith for the exceptional care and compassion she provided in recent years.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Horsepower Therapeutic Learning Center (Memo: Glory) or to the NC State Veterans Home in Kernersville. These gifts will honor Ron’s life and continue his legacy.

Davidson Funeral Home - Hickory Tree Chapel is honored to serve the Long family.