Edward Ewing "Ed" DeLong III

1936 - 2025

Edward "Ed" Ewing DeLong III

September 11, 1936 - August 11, 2025

Edward "Ed" Ewing DeLong III, a respected businessman, devoted family man, and proud U.S. Air Force veteran, passed away peacefully at his home in Rock Island, Ill., on August 11, 2025, at the age of 88.

A funeral service will be held in honor of Ed at 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Trinity Anglican Church in Rock Island. Visitation will take place on Friday, August 15, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory in Rock Island. Following services, Ed will be laid to rest in Chippiannock Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in his name to the Camp Mishawaka Scholarship Fund or Heartland Hospice.

Born on September 11, 1936, in St. Joseph, Mo., Ed was the son of Dr. Edward and Dorothy (Marks) DeLong. He graduated from Waukegan High School in 1954, where he distinguished himself as a two-time state champion in the half-mile track event and a standout quarterback. Offered a football scholarship to Yale, he chose instead to attend the University of Illinois, so his father could watch him play. He went on to compete in both football and track on scholarship, earning his bachelor's degree in journalism in 1959, and was a proud member of the university's ROTC program.

Ed served his country with distinction in the United States Air Force, achieving the rank of Captain and piloting a KC-135 tanker during the Cuban Missile Crisis. His service reflected courage, skill, and steady leadership. Even after retiring from the military, he continued his love of flying throughout his life.

While working at Camp Mishawaka in Grand Rapids, Minn., Ed met the love of his life, Anne Abbott Potter. They married on November 25, 1959, in Rock Island and shared more than 42 years together until her passing in 2002.

Ed began his career as a reporter for the Rock Island Argus before moving to WHBF TV, where he rose from director of promotions to Executive Vice President. He later served as a general manager of the Quad City Thunder, where his quiet but determined leadership guided the team to a CBA championship – a proud moment for the Quad Cities community.

An avid golfer and dedicated aviator, Ed was also an active member of Trinity Anglican Church, where his faith shaped his life and relationships.

He will be deeply missed by his surviving family: his son, David Potter DeLong; his daughter, Elizabeth Anne DeLong (Victor Panegos); and his cherished granddaughters, Ryan Elizabeth Bucktrout and Olivia Anneiole Panegos. Ed is also survived by his sister, Linda Ann Heedum; brother-in-law, Paul Postlewaite; several nieces and nephews; and his dear friend, Beverly Roberts. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife; his son, Blair DeLong; his parents, and his sister, Terryl Postlewaite.

Like the steady hum of an engine at altitude or the rhythm of a runner's stride, Ed's life moved with purpose and grace. His journey now carries him beyond our sight, but his presence remains – steady, guiding, and forever a part of our story.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.wheelanpressly.com.

Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory

3030 7th Ave

Rock Island, IL

309-786-5421