Philip "Gene" Eugene Long

Philip Eugene “Gene” Long, 83, of Kannapolis, passed away on Monday, December 8, 2025, at Tucker Hospice House.

Gene was born on January 31, 1942, in Cabarrus County to his loving parents, Ephriam Ernest Long and Ophelia Evalina Barnes Long, who preceded him in death.

Gene was a true entrepreneur with a vibrant, determined spirit. Over the years, he owned and operated three successful furniture stores, founded Long Construction, opened a motorcycle dealership, and even set up a country-western nightclub called The Stallion. His hard work, leadership, and deep love for his community earned him the proud title of “Father of Farmers Day” in China Grove, a recognition that reflects the lasting influence he left on the town he cherished.

Beyond his business ventures, Gene devoted himself wholeheartedly to the people and passions he loved. He was a dedicated member of North Kannapolis Baptist Church, where he once served as both deacon and youth director. He had a lifelong love for horses, mules, hunting, and fishing. Music was one of Gene’s greatest gifts and joys. He picked up the bass guitar at an early age and joined his first band at just 15 years old. He never stopped performing, taking the stage most recently with the Silver Cadillacs on October 25, 2025. Gene spent his life bringing rhythm and joy to everyone who heard him.

Gene also enjoyed being part of the Birmingham Roller Association (Pigeon Club) and the Rowan County Tea Party. His commitment to the revitalization of Kannapolis led him to establish Downtown Kannapolis Incorporation (DKI), a testament to his dedication to his community. As proud patriot, he founded The Great American Eagle Society as an expression of his love for his country.

Gene’s life was marked by passion, service, and generosity. His legacy will continue to live on in the many lives he touched and in the town he helped shape.

In addition to his parents, Gene was preceded in death by his wife, Emelia Mendoza Long.

Those left to cherish his memory include his sons, Tony Long (Jacquie) and Dr. Tim Long (Trisha); his two grandchildren, Sydney Presnell (Ethan) and Marshall Long; his significant other, Sharron Gaddy.

The family will receive friends from 3–5 PM on Sunday at Whitley’s Funeral Home Chapel. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday, December 15, 2025, at Whitley’s Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Steve Leigh of Lakewood Baptist officiating. Burial will follow at Carolina Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame (northcarolinamusichalloffame.org) or the Horse Protection Society of NC (horseprotection.org).