July 8, 1939 – January 23, 2025

Gerald Phillip Long
January 23, 2025 – Denver, CO
Age 85
Gerald “Jerry” Phillip Long, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, in Denver, Colorado, at the age of 85.
Born and raised in Denver, Jerry graduated from Regis High School in 1957 and went on to earn his degree from Regis College in 1961. He was known for his insatiable curiosity, which spanned a wide range of subjects—from finance to travel—and his passionate pursuit of knowledge touched everyone who knew him.
In 1967, Jerry married the love of his life, Patricia “Patsy” Leighton, and the two shared a beautiful marriage of 58 years. Together, they raised two sons, Andrew and Aaron. In 1971, the family moved to Aspen, Colorado, where Jerry and Patsy opened the Aspen General Store, an iconic local business where they forged lasting friendships with the community. In 1983, they relocated to Tucson, Arizona, where they embraced a new chapter in life, building custom homes and forming deep connections with new friends. In 2000, Jerry and Patsy returned to Denver, where they enjoyed memorable family trips abroad and time with friends and family.
Jerry’s legacy is defined by his kindness, integrity, and unwavering loyalty. He was a man of great character and generosity, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Patricia (Leighton) Long; his sons, Andrew of Columbus, Ohio, and Aaron of Denver, Colorado; and his brother, Ralph of Denver, Colorado. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Rosanna Long of Denver, Colorado.
A celebration of life memorial will be held this spring in Denver. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) Jerry’s honor.