Francis “Biggie” McDonough, 39, of Long Beach

Long Beach resident Francis “Biggie” McDonough was born to John and Maureen (Berner) McDonough on July 17, 1974. He died on June 20 from complications due to a stroke.

In his early years, McDonough was raised in the Five Towns, where he was star varsity football player No. 78, and graduated from Lawrence High School with the class of 1992. It was during his high school football years that his friend, Frank Mistero, coined the nickname, “BIG.”

McDonough was a well-known and respected member of the Long Beach community. Many memories were shared during his years working at local spots, most notably Chauncey's on the Beach and Minnesota's. His good friend, Kyle Christensen, noted that his infamous quote, “Ladies and Gentlemen, the bar is now closed” will be forever remembered.

He was an active member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians Division 17. A true sports fan who loved the New York Giants, Rangers, Yankees and, more importantly, “who ever won him the most money.”

He is survived by his siblings Alice McDonough, Kathleen McDonough and John McDonough, who will miss him dearly. He was a proud and dedicated uncle to Nicholas and Kaitlyn Genari, and Daniel and Grace Capabianco.

A confidant, mentor, protector, and loyal friend, McDonough’s friends were his life and he lived to smile and take care of them. McDonough was described by family and friends as a great man, a gentle man, with so much inner toughness that he never had to show it.

He had many passions for life including good food and drink, and he frequently visited friends at Jimmy Hays, Mio Posto, Bryant and Cooper, and Minnesota's.

Those who loved him will miss his welcome hugs and his great smile. Knowing that he is watching over us in heaven, protecting us, and he will be manning the gates of heaven with the same enthusiasm and warm energy he had while he was with us.

A wake will be held from 4 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, June 24 at the Christopher T. Jordan Funeral Home, 302 Long Beach Rd., in Island Park, (516) 431-2900.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 25, at St. Joachim, 620 Central Ave., in Cedarhurst. Procession from the funeral home will leave at 8:30 a.m., Mass will begin at 9:45 a.m.

There will be a sendoff at 12 noon at Minnesota's Grill, 959 W. Beech St. in Long Beach. Please join with family and friends to celebrate his life.