José A.S. Lopez II

A Life Lived
for His Community

José Angelo Santiago Lopez II, age 47 — known affectionately as “Pug” — passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, April 16, 2023. Born in Elmira, NY on April 12, 1976, José was a son, a father, a grandfather, a fiancé, a coach, and a cornerstone of his community.

He is survived by his loving fiancée of 12 years, Kelly Swan of Elmira; son, Christian Lopez; stepchildren DeVante Hall, Trevon Swan, Terrell Swan, and Keanna Rawlings; grandchildren LaShawn and Alaiya; brothers Donald Tyo, Sonny Joseph Lopez, and Richard Bennett; sisters Renee Collins, Michelle L. VanSickle, Francisca D. Lopez, and Melinda Mae Ramos; and close friends Jordan Harris, James Harris, Nyheim Brown, Daryl Gardner, and Steve Proctor. He was loved by a host of nieces, nephews, student athletes, and the entire Elmira community.

After attending Elmira City Schools, José held various roles in landscaping and carpentry before working as a bus aide. Yet his truest calling was always coaching. At just 18 years old, José discovered a love for guiding young athletes in football, soccer, and basketball — a passion that would define the rest of his life.

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He coached that having heart and working hard will get the “dub”... on and off the court.

— A lesson for life, not just basketball

In 2020, José co-founded El Town Elite Basketball — initially for boys, later expanding to include a girls' team in 2022. He believed it took a village to empower the youth, and he built one. His mantra, “Community built; family strong,” wasn't just a saying — it was the blueprint for everything he created.

Beyond the court, José cherished time spent with Kelly, his family, and his friends. He loved traveling, cooking, fishing, and playing chess. He will always be remembered as the best supporter his community ever had.