Troy community remembers John M. Long, a Troy University icon

On Monday night, Troy University lost a legend in Dr. Johnny Long, the founder of “The Sound of the South” and a world-renowned director of bands.

As news of his death began to spread, social media became active with posts of remembrances for Dr. Long.

Tonight is a sad night for @TROYUnews & the @Official_SOTS, as we have lost Dr. Johnny Long.

As band director, he created the Sound of the South & turned Troy's marching band into the successful program of today.

His impact & importance in Troy history will not be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/eXSMGn78KS
— Ben Whitehead (@BenOnSports) February 25, 2020

Troy University lost a great one tonight. Dr. Johnny Long, founder of “The Sound of the South” and most would say the best band director ever. RIP
Posted by Chip Dillard on Monday, February 24, 2020

We lost a great one. 😓
Posted by Angel Tillery Phelps on Tuesday, February 25, 2020

An incredible sad day for the @TROYUnews family. He was a true legend whose impact will never be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/aoQJPU5Upu
— Stefanie Hicks East (@StefanieEast) February 25, 2020

Dr. Johnny Long inspired many people during his life. He had many sayings in life that really stuck in our lives. Some…
Posted by Michael O'Hara on Monday, February 24, 2020

Today we remember Dr. Long’s life and legacy – truly a pillar in the Troy community. —————————————————Founder of the…
Posted by Bill Jackson Ford on Tuesday, February 25, 2020

Johnny Long in 1939, a trumpet player in the MCHS band. How could he have ever known what musical life lay ahead? @TROYUnews @TroyTVNews @TROYUspirit @TroyUAlumni @TroyAthletics pic.twitter.com/zNj7yRKJTN
— Michael Bird (@MichaelBird605) February 25, 2020

There are no words except “Thank you.” ❤️ pic.twitter.com/DNrQuTU9xf
— Whitney Bowers (@whitneyebowers) February 25, 2020

While I was never in the Sound of the South, I knew the impact Dr. Long had on every musician that played for him. I…
Posted by Aaron Taylor on Monday, February 24, 2020

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We're saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Johnny Long, a remarkable leader, musician and man who so willingly shared his gifts with generations of college students, with Troy University and with the PIke County community.

A post shared by The Troy Messenger (@thetroymessenger) on Feb 25, 2020 at 6:44am PST

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Dr. Johnny Long passed away tonight, Dr. Long was band director at Troy University. It was an honor to have known him, and I like these pictures of both my boys with him. Thank you Dr. Long! #SoundOfTheSouth #TroyUniversity #OneTroy

A post shared by Philip Box (@philipbbox) on Feb 24, 2020 at 10:09pm PST

God Speed Dr. Long You have touched and shaped more lives than you will ever know. Troy (State) University has lost a legend this day.
Posted by Jeff Herring on Tuesday, February 25, 2020

What were your memories of Dr. Long? Leave us a comment.