(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Phil Long Dealerships announced on Sunday, Feb. 25 that recently retired President and CEO of Phil Long Dealerships Gerald “Jay” Cimino had passed away.
According to Phil Long Dealerships, 87-year-old Cimino died peacefully on the evening of Saturday, Feb. 24 at his home in Colorado Springs, surrounded by family.
Cimino joined Founder Phil Long in 1975 as a partner and general manager of a single Ford dealership in Colorado Springs. Phil Long Dealerships said Cimino’s leadership played a pivotal role in transforming Phil Long Dealerships into the largest, privately held automotive group in Colorado.
Cimino’s story started in Trinidad and he found ways to give back to his hometown.
Cimino created the Trinidad Community Foundation, the Jay Cimino Champion Scholarship Fund for Holy Trinity Academy students, and a new visitor center.
Cimino was well known for his philanthropic endeavors and community service and established both the Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center and Mt. Carmel Wellness and Community Center.
Cimino also created the Phil Long Community Fund, which in partnership with Denver Broncos Charities, built 12 fantasy playgrounds, two skate parks, and one football field across Colorado, along with allocating millions to organizations championing youth excellence in education and sports across the front range.
“The entire Phil Long Enterprise family mourns this loss. On behalf of our Board of Directors, management team, and employees, we extend our deepest sympathies to Jay’s family,” said Kevin Shaughnessy, President and CEO of Phil Long Dealerships. “Jay was a larger-than-life figure who brought his remarkable passion, experience, and vision in growing Phil Long Dealerships to be among the most respected and recognized brands in the automotive industry.”
Gina Cimino, his daughter will continue serving as president of Mt. Carmel of Colorado and Kip Hampden Properties, a role she has held for 15 years, continuing the legacy of her father, according to Phil Long Dealerships
A celebration of life ceremony for the community to attend will be organized at a later date.
