José Longoria

José L. Longoria, 75, former network vice president for neurosciences for Community Health Network in Indianapolis, passed away March 11, 2025 in Plainfield, Indiana, where he lived with his loving wife of 34 years, Sally Longoria.

A decorated combat veteran of the U.S. Army, he was born September 26, 1949 in Edinburg, Texas, the son of Luis Longoria and Francisca Aguilar. Growing up on a family ranch, he learned the value of hard work, and from this experience he vowed to never work on a ranch again.

When he turned 18 in 1968, José enlisted in the Army and completed basic training at Ft. Leonard Wood before heading to Ft. Sam Houston to become a combat medic. During the Vietnam War, he served with distinction in the 9th Infantry Division and the 25th “Tropic Lightning” Division. For gallantry in action, he was awarded the Silver Star.

While furthering his military career as a member of the Indiana National Guard, José’s discharge from active duty and his advanced medical training in the Army led to his initial hospital work in Indiana as a registered respiratory therapist. As he did in the military, Mr. Longoria cultivated a distinguished record of service at Indianapolis area hospitals, where he was long regarded as a skilled and respected administrator among his many friends and colleagues. He retired from Community Health Network in 2016.

He earned business degrees at Indiana Wesleyan and at Chaminade University in Hawaii.

As 1st Sgt. Longoria, he served in the 38th Infantry Division headquarters medical unit in Indianapolis. He retired from the Guard in 2009 as a master sergeant.

Retired Master Sgt. Longoria was an active member of the Plainfield American Legion, Nysewander-Bayliff Post 329. As a proud veteran, he could often be seen wearing one of his Vietnam veteran ball caps and flashing his contagious and heartwarming smile.

José cherished his family and life in his community of friends and neighbors. He enjoyed the outdoors: hiking, the changing colors of autumn and playing tennis, to name a few. He loved cookouts with friends and family, and even grilled out as a special treat for tradesmen who built his and Sally’s last home in 2021.

Besides his wife, survivors include sons Jason Longoria and Justin (Christiane) Longoria; and, sister Janie Longoria. He was preceded in death by his and Sally’s beloved son Ché Gabriel Longoria, a handsome teenager who shared his father’s inviting smile and was taken far too soon. Heartfelt memories of life with Ché have been a frequent companion for both dad and mom over the years.

A memorial service will be Friday, March 28 at 3 p.m. in Hampton Gentry Funeral Home, 106 Shaw Street, Plainfield, IN 46168, with calling from 1 p.m. until time of services. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the “Make-A-Wish” Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana Chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America. https://secure2.wish.org/site/SPageNavigator/dfr_landing.html?chid=100-000

Memorial Live Stream Link https://my.gather.app/remember/jose-longoria-2025