Jeffrey Franklin Longworth

Jeffrey was born on October 18, 1964, at the Jewish Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio. He grew up in Warsaw, Kentucky, and graduated from Gallatin County High school, and continued his studies at Cincinnati Christian University.

Jeff started working at American Airlines in Nashville, Tennessee, as a fleet service clerk, or as he would joke, “the guy who loses your luggage”. His three decade career with AA gave him the opportunity to create some lifelong friendships, as well as, meet the love of his life, Dorene, on a river rafting trip in Phoenix, Arizona. Coincidentally, Dorene also worked for AA, but was based in Dallas, Texas.

On October 21, 1995, Jeff married his girl in Corrales, New Mexico, where her parents reside. Soon after, they both transferred with AA to Miami, Florida, finally starting their life together in the same city. They settled down in their home in South Florida, and raised two children, Jerrett and Jenna. After 34 years of service to American Airlines, Jeffrey happily retired!

Despite seeming intimidating at first glance, Jeffrey quickly became friends with nearly everyone he met and was given nicknames like “Big Jeff” and “Jethro”. He had a passion for cooking and enjoyed creating meals for everyone. His famous chicken burritos were always a hit when he brought them to his work buddies, and his famous homemade beef jerky, which was always in demand, turned into a small side gig. The artistic side of Jeff created drawings, played guitar, built wooden boxes and figurines. This creative side was passed down from his mother to him, and now his daughter. Jeff was also a devoted UK and Cincinnati Bengals fan regardless of the season, always cheering the teams on.

Jeffrey has now been met in heaven by his father, Elmer Franklin Longworth, mother, Joan Doreen Higgins, and his step dad, Clifton Higgins. His legacy is carried on by his wife of 30 years, Dorene, and their children Jerrett Franklin and Jenna Belinda.

A gathering to share the good memories of Jeff will be held on Saturday August 1, 2026, at their home from 12pm-9pm. If you are interested in attending, please contact 954-560-5756 for more information.

His memory will live on in the kindness he gave others and all of those who loved him.