Jim Long, 24-year insurance head, dies

bniolet — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 16:20:21 -0500

Longtime Insurance Commissioner Jim Long has died. He was 68.

Long died Monday at Rex Hospital where he had been hospitalized after suffering a stroke Jan. 21.

"It is with heavy hearts that our family witnessed Jim's passing today," said Peg O’Connell, Long’s wife. "We will be forever thankful for the prayers and kind words the people of North Carolina offered to Jim and our family during this difficult time. Jim loved this great state and its gracious people. He was honored to serve them."

Long hand-picked his replacement, Wayne Goodwin, a deputy who was elected Insurance Commissioner after Long announced he would retire.

“Our hearts are broken over the loss of our former leader and dear friend, Jim Long. For 24 years, we were fortunate enough to work by his side, sharing both personal and professional triumphs and disappointments, laughter and sorrow," Goodwin said. "He was a mentor and friend to all of us, and we will miss him more than words can express. As our family grieves, we will try to find comfort knowing that through our work we can honor Commissioner Long’s legacy of serving the people of our state that he so loved."

Long served as head of the North Carolina Department of Insurance for 24 years and retired last month. He held a state-wide elected office longer than anyone in North Carolina history with the exceptions of Secretary of State Thad Eure and Agriculture Commissioner Jim Graham.

O'Connell urged North Carolina families to educate themselves about stroke and stroke prevention. "This is a terrible day for our family, yet I know Jim would want some good to come of this," said O'Connell. "There is nothing more precious than health and family."

Funeral arrangements for Long have not been finalized.

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Jim Long, 24-year insurance head, dies