James Lowell Long

James Lowell Long, 85, of Monmouth, IL, passed away at 10:00 p.m., Sunday, October 4, 2026 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria, IL.

He was born August 7, 1941 in Monmouth, IL, the son of A. Lewis and Katherin Frances (Shimmin) Long. He was raised and educated in Monmouth, graduating from Warren High School in 1959. He then went on to receive his bachelors of Math Education and Engineering from North Central College, Naperville, IL.

Lowell married Diane (Dee) Youssi on December 20, 1963 in Palos Hills, IL and she survives.

He worked as an engineer for Arlington Heights International Harvester for a time, he later decided he wanted to pursue a career as a Math Teacher. Lowell then went on to teach at Crystal Lake Jr. High, Crystal Lake, IL, until his retirement.

Lowell was a member of Faith United Presbyterian Church in Monmouth, serving in their choir. He was also a member of St. Paul’s Church in Crystal Lake. He was a huge sports fan, enjoying the Chicago Cubs and Bears. Lowell found great enjoyment in serving as the football coach for Crystal Lake Jr. High School. He also loved playing tennis with his friends and enjoyed being on a team with his wife.

Survivors include his wife, Dee Long; brothers, Lynn (Dorothy) Long and Ben (Joyce) Long; several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by his son, James Michael (Jim) Long; his parents and his brother, Tom (Marge) Long.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A private family interment will be in Windridge Memorial Park, Cary, IL at a later date. Memorials may be given to the James Lowell Long Memorial Fund and sent to the funeral home. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL is in charge of the arrangements.