John Long Obituary, Death – Friends Aware said their final goodbyes to a very valuable member of their community the week before last. John “Bing” Long was one of the founding members of the organization that would one day become known as Friends Aware. Bing and his brother Steve served as the impetus for the formation of Friends Aware in 1954 by their family.
The departure of such a magnificent person who had a way of winning the hearts of anyone who had the opportunity to connect with him has left us inconsolable. We are stricken with sorrow at the news of his passing. Bing’s dedication to WCBC radio, as well as the fact that he acted as though he was conducting interviews with each and every person he met, will live on in infamy forever. The phrase “BIG BAD JOHN, reporting to you from WCBC radio” was his most famous catchphrase, and it was as endearing and resounding as it was infectious.
This phrase, along with his infectious laugh, continues to echo in our hearts and minds. Bing was known to welcome everyone he came into contact with the words “God Bless You” and the promise that he would pray for them. He also made good on his promise to pray for them. At Friends Aware, Bing held a very particular place in the hearts of each and every one of us, and we will all miss him terribly.