Thomas William DeLong, a resident of Mobile, Alabama, formerly of DeGraff, Ohio, passed away on March 17, 2026, at the age of 85.
Thomas was a graduate of Riverside High School (DeGraff). Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy, where he proudly served aboard the USS NEWPORT NEWS CA-148 for four years. After his service, he returned home and began building his family and life.
Throughout his life, Thomas had a deep love for the outdoors. He enjoyed farming and later found great joy in gardening. He also loved fishing, hunting, and birding. One of his greatest passions was mentoring and coaching-he spent many years coaching his children in baseball and softball and served as a mentor to many.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Florence Clark and William DeLong, and his wife, Judith (Roby) DeLong.
Thomas is survived by his children: Stephanie (Todd) Longberry, Wade (Jane Ann) DeLong, Denise (Paul) Kaffenbarger, Janine (Tony) Schmitmeyer, and John (Connie) DeLong.
He is also survived by his grandchildren: Matthew (Megan) Wiseman, Duncan (Emma) Schalick Longberry, Brandon (Shakira) Longberry, Nikita (DJ) Chidester, Myles DeLong, William (Haley) DeLong, Nate Kaffenbarger, Jenni Kaffenbarger, Alyson Schmitmeyer, Julia Schmitmeyer, Taylor Schmitmeyer; Xander DeLong and Jevoghn Wilson (USAF) ; 11 great-grandchildren and many other loved family members and friends.
A Celebration of Thomas’s life will be June 1, 2026, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM at The Lighthouse at Indian Lake, 121 Orchard Island Road, Russells Point, OH.
His remains will be interred at the Alabama State Veterans Cemetery in Spanish Fort, Alabama.
