John Raymond Long, DVM, “Ray”, Dr. Long, of Rochester, NY, passed peacefully Wednesday June 4th at Aurora House, Spencerport NY.
Ray was born on November 27, 1935 in Westmorland County PA and was the son of the late John and Ruth (Hess) Long. He was a passionate and devoted veterinarian of 61 years, graduating from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1959. He closed his Batavia practice in 2020 and was known for pioneering surgical techniques which enhanced the human-animal bond while improving skin and health conditions for the animals he cared for.
On April 25, 2002, Ray married the love of his life, Sharon Lee (Jahnke) Long. Together, they built a life marked by love, laughter and generosity. Ray is survived by his son Glenn Long, three step-children, Richard Yates Jr. (Dorene), Jonathan Yates (Jacqueline), Melissa Gammons (Robert), and six grandchildren, Juliet, Jillian, Jericho, Jessamine, Ana, and Aiden. Also surviving are two sisters, Frances (John) Ratcliffe and Margery (Gene) Edwards and sister-in-law Barbara Long. He was predeceased by two sisters, Isabel (Harry) Brown, Virginia (Robert) Motyca and one brother Robert (Barbara) Long.
Ray loved his wife and his cat Juniper. He was never at a loss for words and enjoyed his final years at St. John’s Meadows, making new friends and always at-the-ready to learn new things. He enjoyed “hillbilly music” and making sure his wife was well cared for. Spending time with his beloved son and seeing other family, who would stop by on occasion was a favorite pastime of late. His love for his family, his kids and grandkids was evident, always bringing a smile to his face. Ray was not only proud of his life work as a veterinarian but also never missed a beat letting newcomers know that the art gallery in their home was courtesy of his talented wife.
A Memorial Service will be in the near future, at St. John’s Meadows, 1 Johnsarbor Dr W, Rochester, NY 14620. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Aurora House of Western Monroe County, 2495 S Union St, Spencerport, NY 14559
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