Jacob Cleon Long, 99, of Myerstown, PA, died on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025, at the Lebanon VA Medical Center.
Born in Lebanon, PA, on Sept. 16, 1925, he was the son of the late Jacob and Mary Long.
From childhood, he farmed and cared for various animals. At the age of nine, as a young entrepreneur, he sold his first rabbit, launching a lifetime hobby of raising, buying, and selling rabbits, which led to some community members referring to him as “The Rabbit Man.”
He was a graduate of Myerstown High School in 1943 and enjoyed gathering with classmates for decades. Jacob loved working and held various positions throughout his life. Driving semi-trucks was his favorite type of occupation. He drove for many companies, beginning with J. H. Sprecher, Inc., hauling automobiles to Detroit. In 1954, he was drafted to serve in the U.S. Army in Germany during the Korean conflict. He spent many years as a member of the Teamsters driving for Interstate Dress Carriers throughout the State of Pennsylvania.
In retirement, he continued his hobbies of farming and raising rabbits, and he also enjoyed watching NASCAR races.
Jacob is survived by his daughters, Loretta Royer, and Lisa, wife of Joseph Dolan; sons, Lester Long, husband of Jane, Leroy Long, husband of Peg, Leon Long, husband of Lori, and Leslie Long; sister, Sarah Webber; 13 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
Jacob is preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, June M. (Benfer) Long; and son-in-law, Phillip Royer
Funeral services will be held on Monday, Feb. 24, 2025, at 2:30 p.m., at Grose Funeral Home, 358 W. Washington Ave., Myerstown, PA. Viewing will begin at 1:30 p.m. Interment will be held at Mount Hope Cemetery, Myerstown.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Juniper Village, 1125 Birch Road, Lebanon, PA 17042.
