James Howard Delong, Jr.

James Howard DeLong, Jr., 63, of Gallipolis passed away on Sunday, August 18, 2019 at his residence. Born on May 1, 1956 in Oak Hill, Ohio, Howard was the son of the late James Howard DeLong, Sr. and the late Lola Sue Johnson. On March 2, 1980, James married Della J. Sanders DeLong, who survives him in Gallipolis. Howard had worked as a TPW at the Gallipolis Developmental Center for 10 years and had more recently been a self-employed dog groomer. He had attended Bulaville Christian Church and enjoyed listening to all kinds of music. Howard is survived by his wife, Della Delong of Gallipolis; son, Wesley (Nina) DeLong of Bidwell; grandsons, Keegan, Eli, and Abel; brothers-in-law, Steve (Brenda) Sanders of Crown City, Dale (Alice) Sanders of Crown City, and Mark (Debbie) Sanders of Gallipolis; sisters-in-law, Lora (Troy) DeLaney of Crown City and Karen (John) Anderson of Gallipolis; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Howard was preceded in death by his daughter, Sara Elizabeth DeLong on December 14, 2017; brother, Robert Murray; and sister, Joyce Bennett. At this time, no public services have been planned. Willis Funeral Home is in care of the arrangements. Please visit www.willisfuneralhome.com to send e-mail condolences.