James Armon Long, 76, of Canton, passed away on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.

Armon was born in Haywood County on March 21, 1950, to his loving parents, Armon and Betty Jo (Gorrell) Long. It was at Bethel Baptist Church that Armon met the love of his life, Hilda Mann, beginning a love story that would span more than half a century.

Armon and Hilda were married in Bethel on December 4, 1971, although Mother Nature seemed determined to make them work for it. With nearly 18 inches of snow on the ground and one thing after another seemingly going wrong, their wedding day became one they would certainly never forget. Despite everything thrown their way, love prevailed, and Armon and Hilda began a marriage that would carry them through nearly 55 wonderful years together.

Armon found happiness in the simple things in life. He loved deer hunting and fishing, enjoyed watching ballgames, and was an especially proud and devoted Pisgah fan. He also treasured his trips to Alabama to visit his Uncle J.C. Gorrell and his wife Jean, as well as his Aunt Shirley Gorrell Leatherwood, who all held a very special place in Armon’s heart and remained a dear and important part of his life.

As much as Armon enjoyed those things, nothing compared to the love he had for his family. His wife and daughters were at the center of his world, and some of their most treasured memories will be of the laughter that seemed to follow him wherever he went. They will remember his jokes, his ability to make them laugh, and the unmistakable joy he brought into their lives simply by being himself.

After 76 years, Armon leaves behind far more than memories of the things he enjoyed or the places he went. He leaves behind nearly 55 years of marriage to the woman he loved, daughters who knew how deeply they were cherished, a family filled with stories and laughter, and a lifetime of moments that will continue to be shared for generations to come. Armon will be deeply missed, but the love, humor, and happiness he brought to his family will remain a lasting part of all those fortunate enough to have known and loved him.

Left to mourn Armon’s passing his is beloved wife, Hilda Long; Daughters, Amy (Matt) Davis; Beverly Reece; grandsons, Lawson Reece, and Josh Lowe; step-grandchildren, Melanie -(Zach) Berry, and Lori Davis; step-great-grandchildren, Justin Berry, and Noah Berry; siblings, Danny (Darlene) Long, Mitzi (Daniel) Warren, LouAnn (Brian) Allen, and Tommy (April) Long. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henson and Betty Jo Long.

A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 2:00 PM, Wells Funeral Home of Canton. Visitation with the family will be held on Sunday, September 13, 2026, from 7:00 – 9:00 PM, at Wells Funeral Home of Canton. Interment will take place following the service on Monday at Bethel Community Cemetery. Officiating will be Rev. Matt Rhea.

The care of Mr. Long has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Canton.