Obituary published on Legacy.com by Chase Parkway Memorial/The Albini Family Funeral Home - Waterbury on Jan. 3, 2023.
MIDDLEBURY
Joseph Longo Jr.
"President of United Auto Sales in Waterbury"
Joseph Longo Jr., 71, of Waterbury, entered into the gates of heaven on Christmas morning, where he was reunited with many family members and friends who passed before him. He was the loving husband and best friend of Kathryn "Kathy" A. (Spaulding) Longo of forty-six years.
Joe was born in Waterbury on July 24, 1951, son of the late Joseph L. Sr. and Ann (Bartoletti) Longo. Growing up in Waterbury, Joe attended Waterbury Public Schools and was a graduate of Wilby High School, and then went on to receive his associates degree from Post University and his Bachelor's degree from the University of New Haven. Many that knew Joe, knew him from his family business, United Auto Sales. Joe was president of the company and ran the business with his father and brother Charlie, with Joe operating the body shop for many years.
Throughout the years, Joe was a member of the Connecticut Auto Body Association, the Knights of Columbus, and Oakville-Watertown Unico, where he also served as past treasurer. Being a strong man of faith, Joe always was a devoted Catholic and with his wife Kathy, the two of them were longtime parishioners of Saint John of the Cross Church in Middlebury. One of Joe's favorite passions was cooking, being known for his famous chicken soup that was always a request of friends and family. He embraced his Italian heritage and carried on these traditions throughout the years. Always wanting to be around those he loved, Joe enjoyed family vacations, especially to Cape Cod and loved going on cruises. Joe was also a hockey fan and loved attending all of his grandchildren's sporting events whether it was hockey, dance recitals, lacrosse or soccer.
All those who knew Joe could attest that he was simply a generous, caring, sweet, pleasant, gentle and happy man. Above everything else in the world, Joe absolutely adored his family, especially his grandchildren, and loved nothing more than spending time with them. Joe's memory will live on forever and he will be missed by everyone.
Besides his beloved wife Kathy of Middlebury, Joe leaves behind to cherish his memory his two sons, David J. Longo and his wife Jennifer of Watertown, Joseph Longo III and his wife Kim of Middlebury, a brother, Peter Longo and his wife Christine of Morris, and his four grandchildren whom he adored, Michael, Giuliana, Anthony, and Joseph. Joe also leaves behind his entire United Auto Sales Family, as well as many loving nieces, nephews, and friends. He was predeceased by his brother, Charles "Charlie" Longo.
Arrangements: A funeral will be held on Thursday, December 29, 2022, 8:45 a.m. at Chase Parkway Memorial/Albini Family Funeral Home, 430 Chase Parkway, Waterbury to Saint John of the Cross Church, Roman Catholic Parish of Middlebury and Southbury, 1253 West Street, Middlebury for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Watertown. Calling hours for Joe will be held Wednesday evening from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Joe's memory to:
Shriner's Children New England
516 Carew Street
Springfield, MA 01104
www.shrinerschildrens.org/donate
Or
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital501
St. Jude's Place
Memphis, TN38105
www.stjude.org/donate