Obituary of Francis E. Long

Francis E. Long, better known as Fran or Franny to friends and neighbors, passed away at home in Tuscarora on Tuesday, March 28, 2023 at the age of 101 years. Born in Corning, NY on June 8, 1921, Fran was the son of the late Clyde Long and Lucille Hatwick Long. On October 13, 1941, he married Mildred Updyke, who preceded him in death just nine days earlier on Sunday, March 19, 2023. He was blessed to be married 81 years. He told family upon seeing her for the first time, he announced to friends that he was going to marry that girl. Fran lived in Addison most of his life, raising his family in a home just across the Tuscarora Creek from the farm his father owned. He served in the Army as a Private for a short time before being injured and sent home to recuperate. He received an honorable discharge in December 1944. He was employed by Corning Glass Works for 37 years, retiring in 1978. Fran was a mechanic and loved buying and selling used cars after restoring their engines. He enjoyed many years of hunting and snowmobiling with family and friends. In his 60s he learned to play golf. He amazed family when he could still play and walk the course in his 80s. Fran & his wife lived in Webster, Florida during the winter months after they retired. He continued to work part-time while there for many years. They attended Webster Baptist Church and it was there that he decided to make a commitment to God and be baptized. He often opened meal time prayers with, “thank you, God, for another nice day.” Fran served as a volunteer with the Freeman Fire Department for many years. He is a life-time member of the Addison American Legion and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. Surviving are his children and their spouses, Janet Arnold of Addison, Charlotte and Dan Corcoran of Elmira, Marlene and Steve Rebhan of Brooksville, Fl, Ronald and Theresa Long of Dundee, Linda Long and Robert Kern of Beaver Dams, Ray and Hope Anne Long of Bath, and Randy Long of Addison. He is survived by many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren. In addition to his wife and parents, Fran is preceded in death by his grandson, Todd Crane, his son-in-law, Ronald Arnold, and his siblings Arnold Long, Clyde “Bud” Long and Gloria Winters. A private celebration of his life service will be held at the family’s convenience. To honor Fran please consider memorial donations to support children’s programs at either Webster Baptist Church, Webster, Fl or Tuscarora Baptist Church, Addison, NY. Arrangements are with the H.P. Smith & Son Funeral Home in Woodhull, NY.