The wake for Deacon Thomas T. Long will begin with vespers at 3 p.m. Dec. 16 in St. Christopher Church, 20141 Detroit Road, Rocky River. Father Dan Schlegel, vicar for clergy and religious, will be the presider and homilist. The wake continues until 6:30 p.m.
Father John Chlebo, diocesan delegate for senior priests and St. Christopher pastor, will be the celebrant and homilist for Deacon Long’s funeral Mass at 11 a.m. Dec. 17 in St. Christopher Church.
Deacon Long, 71, died on Dec. 13.
He was born April 21, 1950. Deacon Long is survived by his children and grandchildren. His wife, Kathleen (Kocsis) predeceased him.
Deacon Long was ordained to the permanent diaconate for service to the Diocese of Cleveland on May 1, 2010 in the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist by Bishop Richard Lennon.
He was assigned to St. Christopher Parish, where he served until his retirement on July 1, 2020. Those who knew him said Deacon Long was known for his gentle soul and kind-hearted approach. They said he served faithfully and loved his diaconal ministry. He gave generously of himself to be of service to others, despite his personal health challenges.
Interment will be in Lakewood Park Cemetery in Rocky River.