PLAINFIELD, VT — The community of Plainfield, Vermont—and beyond—is mourning the unexpected and heartbreaking loss of Brian John Long, 59, a compassionate educator, environmental steward, and gifted musician whose life reflected a deep reverence for nature, learning, and love. Brian passed away suddenly on June 10, leaving behind a family, a circle of friends, former students, and fellow travelers on life’s winding path who are now grappling with the void left in his gentle absence.
Born and raised in Sterling, Massachusetts, Brian was the son of Albert and Marjorie (Reed) Long, who, along with his sister Michele (Long) Albino, survive him. Those closest to Brian remember a man whose spirit was equal parts wanderer and nurturer—a soul drawn to quiet woods, rhythm and melody, and the inner lives of those around him.
After graduating as Vice President of the Class of 1984 from Wachusett Regional High School, Brian earned a degree from Burlington College in 1988. His calling led him to teach middle and high school English at Lamoille Union High School in Hyde Park and Johnson, Vermont. Students remember him not only as a teacher of literature, but as someone who challenged them to think more deeply, to care more boldly, and to approach life with curiosity and heart.
But Brian’s life was never defined by just one path. He found solace among trees and rocks, in the rhythm of a drumbeat, and in the shared silence of a campfire’s glow. Whether hiking through Vermont’s backwoods or jamming on his beloved bongo drums with family back in Massachusetts, Brian moved through the world with openness and authenticity. Music was not just a hobby—it was part of his essence.
In his early adult years, Brian shared a home with musicians who would go on to form the legendary jam band Phish. In those free-spirited days of creativity and camaraderie, Brian contributed to one of the band’s iconic songs—co-writing “Harry Hood”, a tune that still brings joy to audiences decades later. It’s a musical legacy that, much like Brian himself, is heartfelt, spontaneous, and unforgettable.
He will be remembered for more than music or teaching—for being a quiet presence of love and reflection in his family’s life. A devoted uncle, Brian shared special bonds with his nieces and nephews: Jessica Giumentaro, Christopher Chaffee, Mishka Long, and Nicolas Albino, as well as their children. He brought rhythm, laughter, and care into their lives—especially through the joyful tradition of family jam sessions with his father, where generations gathered around the music that connected them.
A celebration of Brian’s life will be held on Thursday, June 19 at 2:00 PM at the First Church in Sterling, 6 Meetinghouse Hill Rd., Sterling, MA. All who knew and loved Brian are welcome to attend, share stories, and reflect on a life marked by gentleness, wisdom, and creative fire.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Sterling Animal Shelter—a fitting tribute to a man who quietly protected all things wild, fragile, and in need of care.
As we say goodbye, we carry Brian’s memory with us—in every thoughtful word, in every echoing beat of a drum, and in the quiet spaces where peace can still be found.
“Thanks for the memories, Bri. We miss you and love you. You’ll be forever in our hearts. May God bless you until we meet again.”