Joseph Benedict Long (Joe) 87, of Cedar Lane Apartments in Leonardtown, MD formerly of Mechanicsville, Maryland died April 29th at the Hospice House of Saint Mary's County. He was the son of the late Martin S. Long and Mary Elizabeth Russell, born in Oraville, Maryland on December 23, 1922.

Joseph was preceded in death by his brothers and sisters, Bart Long, Aaron Long, Dick Long, Lester Long, Mary Johnston and Rita Pilkerton; he is survived by his nieces and nephews.

He graduated from Margaret Brent High School and Strayer Business College. After graduation, he entered the U. S. Army in 1943, served in the Pacific, on the Island of New Guinea, the Philippines and the Solomon's. Joseph was a Radar Specialist and Truck Master until his discharge from the Army in 1946. Upon his discharge he tried farming the family farm before going to work for Burch Oil Company. Joseph worked there until retiring. Upon retiring he enjoyed breeding and raising rabbits for show. He also belonged to a pigeon club and enjoyed racing his birds. Joseph enjoyed traveling with his nephew Ray and spending time with the Cusic family. He enjoyed growing flowers and was an avid reader. Joseph was a lifelong resident of Saint Mary's County.

The family will receive friends on Monday, May 3rd, 2010 at Mattingly - Gardiner Funeral Home from 5:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. Prayers will be said at 7:00 P.M. Services will be held in the funeral home on Tuesday, May 4th, 2010 at 10:30 A.M., officiated by Father John Dakes. Burial will be at Charles Memorial Gardens, Leonardtown, MD. Pallbearers will be J.H. Cusic, Ronald Cusic, Charlie Pilkerton, Mike Pilkerton, R. T. Johnston and John Spalding. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Hospice of St Mary's, P.O. 625, Leonardtown, MD 20650.

Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A.