Joe Longo

After two accidents that required lifesaving care at Morristown Medical Center, Joe Longo is sure the name “Lucky Joe” is only meant for him. He feels grateful for the expert medical care he received for a life-threatening leg infection as a small child and the treatment that saved his life a second time when he was rushed to the hospital with a critical head injury. His immense gratitude led to a legacy gift (bequest) earmarked toward the Annual Fund and donations to the Carol G. Simon Cancer Center, COVID-19 Support Fund and the Geriatric Assessment Center.

“I was working with my dad at the company he founded, J.R. Longo & Sons. While moving equipment, a trolley split and crashed on my head. The odds were 9,999 out of 10,000 that I wouldn’t survive. It was calamityville. The fact that I can talk about the incident is pivotal. Thanks be to God and Morristown Medical Center.”

After that, Longo had the chance to live his version of happily ever after and went on to marry the love of his life, Madeline. While raising their children, Joe and Maria, he grew J.R. Longo & Sons from three employees to 175, with annual revenue of $25 million. The couple’s son, Joseph M. Longo, grew up in the business just as his father had done and is now the third generation of Longo men at the helm running the company, presently called Longo Electrical-Mechanical, Inc.

“I have always felt lucky to the point of indescribable good fortune—my successful business, meeting my wife and surviving two accidents,” Longo said. “I’ve taken a lot from the hospital, and I wanted to give something back.” Their children and grandchildren have continued to witness the transformation of Morristown Medical Center and feel the mandate to honor and carry on their parents’ and grandparents’ legacy of giving.

To support the hospital through a planned gift, contact Cynthia W. O'Donnell, JD, at 973.593.2418 or cynthia.odonnell@atlantichealth.org.