Obituary: Joe Michael Long Sr.

Longtime Arkansas resident and self-employed trucker was 79

Mar. 30, 2026 at 8:15pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A blurred, dreamlike photograph of a small town church in a rural Arkansas landscape, with soft, warm colors and a sense of nostalgia and community.The passing of Joe Michael Long Sr. marks the end of an era for the close-knit community of Harrisburg, Arkansas, where he lived and worked for decades.Harrisburg Today

Joe Michael Long Sr., a 79-year-old resident of Harrisburg, Arkansas, passed away on March 26, 2026, at the Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Long was a self-employed trucker and gravel hauler, as well as an active member of the Church of Christ and the Masonic Lodge.

Why it matters

Obituaries provide insight into the lives and legacies of community members, honoring their contributions and commemorating their passing. Long's obituary highlights his entrepreneurial spirit, civic involvement, and dedication to family, reflecting the values and experiences of many longtime residents of small Arkansas towns.

The details

Long was born on February 23, 1947, in Harrisburg, Arkansas, to John D. and Maxine (Ford) Long. He graduated from Harrisburg High School in 1965 and spent his career as a self-employed trucker and gravel hauler. Long was a member of the Church of Christ and the Masonic Lodge #184 and Shriners. In his free time, he enjoyed dancing, camping, trading vehicles, and doing Elvis impersonations.

  • Long passed away on March 26, 2026.
  • Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
  • A private graveside service will be held on Monday.

The players

Joe Michael Long Sr.

A 79-year-old resident of Harrisburg, Arkansas, who was a self-employed trucker and gravel hauler, as well as an active member of the Church of Christ and the Masonic Lodge.

John D. Long

Long's father.

Maxine (Ford) Long

Long's mother, who survives him.

Linda Faye (Jackson) Long

Long's first wife, who passed away in 1990.

Frances Jo (Presson) Long

Long's second wife, who passed away in 2014.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Joe Michael Long Sr.'s obituary highlights the life of a hardworking, community-oriented individual who found joy in simple pleasures like dancing, camping, and impersonating Elvis. His passing marks the end of an era for Harrisburg, Arkansas, as the town mourns the loss of a longtime resident and entrepreneur.