Mark Bernard Long was born on August 8, 1962, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, to the late Alice Virginia Davenport Long and George Edward Long, Sr. He was educated in the Spartanburg County School District.

Mark devoted more than twenty years of his life to the skilled trade of brick masonry. He took pride in his work and was known for both his craftsmanship and his work ethic. A natural conversationalist, Mark loved to talk just as much as he loved laying bricks. He found joy in life's simple pleasures, especially watching classic television favorites like The Andy Griffith Show and Judge Judy. In his younger years, Mark was known as a sharp dresser, always carrying himself with style and confidence.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Darryl Long, Roger Long, and Harold Long.

Left to honor and cherish his life are his children, Marcus Scruggs of Spartanburg, SC, Markita Simpson of Rutherfordton, NC, and Taryl (Crystal) Simpson of Cherokee, NC;  siblings, George E. Long, Jr. of Spartanburg, South Carolina; Donald (Marilyn) Long of Conyers, Georgia; Yvonne Harris of Decatur, Georgia; and Kenneth (Tammy) Long of Decatur, Georgia. His legacy also lives on through his beloved grandchildren: Azian Antonio Simpson Santiago, Macailah Porter, Ke'yan Simpson, and Serenity McKinney, along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

On December 19, 2025, Mark Bernard Long transitioned from this life. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.