Daniel R. Longo

Daniel R. Longo, aged 72, passed away on Friday, March 15, 2024, at his home in Phoenixville, PA. Born on February 20, 1952, in Jersey City, NJ, to the late Frank and Rose (Liguori) Longo, Daniel's life was a testament to his steadfast faith, scholarly excellence, and the deep love he held for his family.

Daniel was a faithful member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church and an Oblate of the Order of St. Benedict.  Throughout his life, Daniel found peace and inspiration in his faith.  He was a devout reader of the lives of saints, and observed their feast days with reverence. He found solace in time spent in contemplation at Conception Abbey, in his travels to Rome, within his local church, or in the quiet of his room. Daniel was dedicated to the Lord, as was evident in his active involvement in each parish he became part of, including singing in the choir at Our Lady of Lourdes, bringing joy and, occasionally, light-hearted pleas from his family for alternative forms of worship.

Daniel attended Villanova University, George Washington University, and Johns Hopkins University, where he earned a doctorate.  As a professor at the University of Missouri Medical School and Virginia Commonwealth University Medical School, he retired as Professor Emeritus, having made indelible marks in Family and Community Medicine and as a research director in the Department of Family Medicine.  His research interests included health communication, chronic disease care, health behavior, and health policy.  Over his career, he helped generate over $100 million in grant funding, significantly enhancing patient care in the medical community.

A proud veteran, Daniel served in the United States Navy at Bethesda Naval Hospital for three years.  

Daniel is survived by his wife of 47 years, Karen A. (Ludy) Longo, his children Gregory S. Longo (Heather) and Alexis S. Longo Morton (Skylor), and his cherished grandchildren Grace, Abigail, Skylor Jr., and Jamie. He also leaves behind his brother Francis (Patricia) Longo, his nieces Lisa Longo-Johnston and Pamela Longo, and loving family and friends.

A mass will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 219 Dayton Street, Phoenixville, PA, on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at 10:00 am. A viewing will be held prior in the church from 8:45 to 9:45 am. Daniel will be laid to rest in St. Mary's Black Rock Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Holy Trinity.