Warren "Sonny" Long

Warren (Sonny) M. Long, 84, of Salem passed away on Friday, October 7, 2022.

Although a native of Blacksburg, Virginia, he lived in Salem, VA for 44 years.  He was the son of Florence and Warren Long, both deceased.  He joined the Navy on August 11, 1955.  He served on the USS Joseph K Taussig.  He retired from General Electric and went on to spend time with his beloved Mary, his wife of 42 years, until her death in June 2022.  He was a member of Faith Wesleyan Church, Moose Lodge #283 and the American Legion Riders.  He loved riding on his Harley which he continued almost until he passed.  There was always another friend to be made and another adventure to be had.  He loved to laugh, and even more, he loved to make people laugh.

He is survived by his daughter Lisa Dickerson and Daniel Dickerson (Janice).  He is also survived by seven grand-children: Samantha Wilds and her husband, Kameron and Joshua Dickerson and his partner Martin Harrell, Christopher, Danielle, Tyler, Jazmine and DJ; and six great-grandchildren: Alexander Michael, Ellinor Warren, Chelsey, Stella, Gracelyn and most recently Samuel Everett who he was able to meet right before his passing.  He is survived by his brother in law, Amir Pishdad, and his two beloved nephews Amir (Butch) Pishdad Jr. and Timothy (Cynthia) Pishdad.  He left behind his most loving dog Sampson and many brothers and sisters in law, nieces and nephews.  With a special mention to Joe and Ruth Overfelt who tirelessly helped to care for him on a regular basis and Hunter and Madi who loved him dearly.

In addition to his parents, the was preceded in death by his brother Donald Long, and his sisters Josephine Pishdad and Mary Jane Epperly. 

He frequented the Salem Waffle House, and he leaves behind his group of friends including Connie, Helen, Joyce, James, Greg, Linda and Chip.  Michael King was not only one of his closest friends, but more like an adopted son.  Nichole Marks and her sons Devin and Tristen were proud to call him “Pappy.”  He will be missed terribly by his “Waffle Home” Family.

The family will receive friends at Lotz Funeral Home in Salem on Tuesday, October 11, 2022 from 6:00 until 8:00 pm.

A funeral service will be held in the chapel of Lotz Funeral Home in Salem on Wednesday, October 12, 2022 at 2:00 pm with Pastor George Larue and JR Shelor officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Alzheimer’s Association or the National Cancer Society.