James Vincent "Howie” Long Sr. , 50 of Port Carbon, died suddenly Saturday. Jim was born May 11, 1970 in Pottsville. He was the son of Leroy Long and Donna Kellagher Botek. He was a 1988 graduate of Minersville Area High School where he played football and was an honor student. He joined the United States Navy after graduation, a childhood dream fulfilled. He served as a missile technician on nuclear submarines for 4 years. Jim or "Howie Long" as he was known was the co-owner of the Schuylkill County Coal Crackers for many years and brought semi pro football back to the county. He was a diehard Steelers fan and painted his house on Laurel Blvd in Pottsville in full Steelers colors. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Pottsville. He was most recently employed at Materion Corporation in Schoemakersville as a Quality Control Inspector since 2015. A very hardworking man, he took great pride in his job and will be sorely missed by his Materion family. Jim was a true family man, exceptional father and friend to everyone he met. He lit up the room with his smile and laugh. He was such a light in this world and a kind soul. His family and children were everything to him and he loved them all dearly. To Jim there were no step children or step brothers or sisters. It was his children, brothers and sisters only. Being a veteran, he had tremendous pride, love and respect for his country. He loved the Steelers, going bowling and his time playing in leagues, watching Nascar and attending races. But his greatest passion was attending all of his children's sporting events. He never missed an opportunity to be there for them. He was a big man with a big heart and is driving his 57' Chevy with his brother Peewee in heaven. He was preceded in death by his brother "Peewee" Leroy Andrew Long in July 2020. Jim is survived by his father Leroy Long and stepmother Debbie. His mother Donna Botek and stepfather Bob Botek. His children Samantha Schweikert (Jared), James Long Jr., Darrin "Dutch" Long, Matthew Ulsh, William Ulsh, Austen Albertson, Gaige Albertson and Jaxson Long. A granddaughter Luna Schweikert. His brother Daniel "DJ" Long (Nichole) and Joseph Long (Annemarie). Sisters Amy Smith and Jennifer Botek. His former wife Joyce Skias (James). Many uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews. Jim is also survived by the love of his life, his fiancé, Laura Albertson. Laura and Jim were soul mates, she was made for Jim and she was his person. They had a beautiful life together and she completed him. An avid animal lover he also leaves behind his three dogs, Princess, Cheyenne, and Johnna. A cat Elsa and Tucker the turtle. A funeral service will be held Monday 9:45 am at the Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home Inc., Minersville. All are invited to attend a visitation with calling hours from 8:00 am until the time of service. Interment Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. Donations can be made in his name to the Ruth Steinert Memorial SPCA or the Wounded Warriors Project. In accordance with COVID-19 Guidelines , all recommended social distancing, mask requirements, and public safety guidelines will be followed. Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home Inc., Minersville entrusted with the arrangements.
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