Donald M. Longley, 81, of Manchester, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2026.

Born in Lynn, Massachusetts, on June 8, 1945, to the late Howard F. and Alice (LeBlanc) Longley, Don’s childhood was spent moving across New England, living in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. He graduated from Burlington High School (VT) in 1963 and went on to attend the University of Vermont. At UVM, Don was a proud member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity and played on the varsity basketball team, graduating in 1967.

Don began his legal education, but after his first year of law school, he lost his student deferment and answered the call to serve his country. He spent three years in the U.S. Army, deploying across the United States, Germany, and the Republic of Vietnam. Following his honorable military service, Don returned to his education and graduated from the UConn School of Law in 1973.

Don spent over 30 years as an Assistant Attorney General for the State of Connecticut, with a primary emphasis on Child Support Enforcement. It is here where he met and fell in love with his wife, Marge.

Don’s true legacy lies in his profound devotion to his family and community. For over 31 years, he managed the Manchester Challenger Little League team, providing a safe, joyful space for children and young adults with disabilities to play baseball. This league was exceptionally near and dear to his heart as the proud parent of a daughter with special needs.

Following the passing of his beloved wife of 41 years, Margery (Holmes) Longley, in 2014, Don committed himself fully to becoming the primary caretaker for his daughter, Meredith. He willingly sacrificed many things in his own life to ensure her well-being. Even though the road was not easy, Don faced it with unmatched devotion and an admirable grace that his family and friends describe as nothing short of saintly. His positive spirit never wavered. Mere was his "forever date." As a lifelong Boston Red Sox fan, they spent many years watching and cheering on the team together.

In addition to his parents and his wife, Marge, Don was predeceased by his sister, Barbara Jewett of Essex Junction, VT.

He is survived by his daughters, Erin Brown and her husband Jeff, and Meredith Longley; his cherished grandchildren, Michael Szegda and Hailie Brown; his brother, David Longley and his wife Sue of Burke, VA; his sister, Carol of Hawaii, and many nieces and special friends. He leaves behind a legacy of selflessness, integrity, and unconditional love. He will be missed beyond imagination. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, October 20th, 2026, at 10am at St. James Church located at 896 Main St, Manchester, CT with a burial to follow with Military Honors at East Cemetery, located at 220 East Center Street, Manchester CT.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to the Manchester Challenger Little League. Donations can be sent to Manchester Little League c/o Don Diehl 98 Highridge Farm Lane Bolton, CT 06043 or by Venmo @ManchesterLittleLeague. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com