Jose "Pepe" R. Longo

Jose Richard “Pepe” Longo, 74, passed away on December 22, 2019. Devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother... No, no—customary terms just won’t do.  Pepe, you were the coolest guy on this green earth. Period. The reluctant rockstar. The electric entertainer. The consummate comedian. You have indeed made your mark on all those who were blessed enough to know you or to hear you play.  Pepe was raised in West Tampa, Florida, stirring up trouble on the brick covered streets between the cigar factories. At age 13, his uncle taught him the saxophone. Soon the stage became his playground, causing jazz, salsa, and rock n’ roll ruckus with the likes of Roy Orbison, Chuck Berry, and countless musical legends. In 1964, he brought his talents to South Florida where he began performing at The Historic Escape Hotel. He continued to bring the heat to anticipating audiences for the next 50 years. His skills, stage presence, and sustainability made him a local legend, and one didn’t have to go far to hear the name “Pepe Longo” or see it shining under marquee lights.  Pepe was a brilliant musician, but the music was merely a method through which he found his true purpose—to entertain. Entertainment was his super power, and he used it to uplift everyone he came in contact with.  The life of an entertainer is difficult to structure, but his talents were not limited to the stage. Despite long nights, he still made the best grilled cheeses and soft boiled eggs. He loved playing football in the yard till someone got hurt (usually him). And there was always time for BBQs, baseball practices, and Dolphin games. While most musicians are rolling stones, Pepe truly felt there was no place like home.  In addition to the music, the memories, and the way too many stories to tell, his legacy will remain with the boundless strength and kindness of his wife of 54 years, Lynnette. His flair for life endures in his sisters, Zeni and Argelia. And his creative spirit, quick wit, and endless charm will continue here on earth through his children, Alesia, Chris, and JoLynn, and his grandsons, Richie, Jessie, and Logan, as well as loving cousins, nieces, and nephews. We love you Papi.  A celebration of his extraordinary life will be held at T.M. Ralph Funeral Home on Monday, December 30th, 2019 at 3 pm. A Memorial Service will be held at 4 pm.   7001 NW 4th St Plantation, FL 33317 (954) 587-6888   In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Shriners Hospitals for Children at www.lovetotherescue.org or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital'at www.stjude.org Cremation arrangements by T.M. Ralph Plantation Funeral Home 954 587-6888