Charles E. Long

Charles Edward Long, Sr., 76, of Fieldale, Virginia, passed away on Monday, September 15, 2025, at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital in Roanoke, Virginia. He was born on March 1, 1949, to the late Felix Long and Evelyn Conway Long. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Long, and his sister, Frances Franklin.

Charles proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps. He retired after 25 years of dedicated service as the Assistant Chief of Police for the City of Martinsville and later continued his career by working 14 years at the Police Academy. He was a member of Mount Bethel United Methodist Church.

He was also the co-founder and co-owner of C.C. Rider Automotive. Charles loved helping others and was known for his generosity. He enjoyed mowing grass and often extended his time and care to neighbors by tending to their yards as well. He also built homes for his children and was truly a jack of all trades.

Left to cherish his memory are his son, Charles “Chad” Long, Jr. (Jeanie); daughter, Yolanda Smallwood (Danny Deskins); three grandchildren, Mary Elizabeth Browning (James), Megan Alexandra Smallwood, and Charles “Trey” Long III (Emily); two great-grandchildren, James Browning IV and Charles “Jace” Long IV; sister, Selma Sater; special friends, Jeff Eanes, Mark Gilbert, and Andy Petty; along with other extended family members and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at Bassett Funeral Service Chapel with Pastor George Gorman officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Roselawn Burial Park.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.bassettfuneralservice.com.Bassett Funeral Service is honored to serve the Long family.