David Phillip “PopPop” Long, 83, of Mooresville, N.C., passed away peacefully at home on November 2, 2020, surrounded by his family.

He was born in Reading, Pa., on January 12, 1937, to Rev. Wilmer and Mary Long. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, James Long.

He is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn Mitchell Long, blessed to be married for 59 years. Together they raised four amazing children, Robert (Cynthia) Long of Troutman, Barbara (Brian) Fleming of Chattanooga, Tenn., Donna (Keith) Baker of Mooresville, and Brian (Wendy) Long of Biglerville, Pa., along with 15 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.

Dave loved life and cherished his family, but most of all loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and he lived his faith in every area of his life.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy and enjoyed a successful career in the aviation industry. Dave and Carol loved to travel the U.S. in their motor home, having visited over 300 of our National Parks. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and friend. Dave was well known for his unfailing optimism and positive attitude.

A celebration of Dave’s life will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 7, at Trinity Baptist Church with Dr. Mark Harris and Dr. Brad Harrison officiating. Burial will follow the service at Rehobeth United Methodist Church in Terrell.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity Baptist Church, 221 Ervin Road, Mooresville, NC 28117.

“It’s getting brighter.”

Cavin-Cook Funeral Home & Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Long family. Condolences may be made to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.