Obituary of Januario “Bing” Katalbas Longno

Januario “Bing” Katalbas Longno of Lexington, SC passed away in the early morning hours of September 9, 2023 surrounded by his beloved family. He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather (“Lolo”), son, brother, and friend to many people throughout his blessed life.

Bing was born in the Philippines on December 24, 1943 to parents Januario Araujo Longno and Nami Katalbas Longno. He spent his early childhood years in Iloilo, Philippines before his father, a Major in the United States Army, moved the family to the United States. Bing was raised in Columbia, SC and was a proud graduate of Eau Claire High School, class of 1962. After high school, Bing went on to serve in the United States Air Force from 1962 - 1966. Upon completion of his military service, he pursued and received a degree in IT at Midlands Tech, which led him to being a systems analyst at BCBS and PMSC until he retired. He married the love of his life, Dee, in 1969 and they then moved to Lexington, SC to raise their four perfectly imperfect children.

To know Bing was to love him. You couldn’t help but feel good when you were around him. His one liners of “aw shucks,” “golly,” and “that’s not too bad…it’s pretty good,” would make anyone smile. He was loving, caring, and thoughtful (particularly in the extended care of his parents). He loved to go fishing and crabbing at Edisto Beach or boating at Lake Murray. He was also a fabulous cook, gardener, and lifetime Gamecocks sports fan–especially football and Lady Gamecocks basketball. He will be missed tremendously.

Bing was predeceased by his parents: Januario A. Longno and Nami K. Longno; siblings: Vicente Longno and Minami Longno; and great granddaughter: Brynlee Rae Beck.

He leaves behind his wife: Nell “Dee” Longno; children: Tina Smalley (Bruce), Stacey Longno (Chuck McLendon), Carl Longno (Amber) and Courtney Longno (Brad Broxton); grandchildren: Caleb Wynne, Emma Smalley, and Carter Beck; brother: Levy Longno (Brenda); nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws; and pets: Miss Kitty, Maggie, and Tucker.

Services will be held at Fort Jackson National Cemetery in Columbia, SC on Friday, September 29, 2023 at 12:00 PM. Attendees are welcome to don Gamecock colors, or even a “Lolo” flannel shirt, if they would like.

South Carolina Cremation Society is assisting the family. Family and friends may sign the online guest book by clicking on the “Tribute Wall” tab above.