Andrew Arena Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Andrew Arena was born September 1, 1931, in Tampa, Florida four minutes apart from his twin brother, Sammy Arena. They were among the first recording artists out of Tampa. Andrew and Sammy dreamed of becoming singers as young boys. The twins were discovered by a representative of Disney who heard them singing in front of a grocery store where their father worked. After an audition was held in a closet, the representative asked the boys’ mother if he could take them for 5 years and he promised to make them stars. Their mother, Grace Arena, would not allow her twins to be taken away at such a young age and they lost their chance to become part of The Mickey Mouse Club. As teenagers, when all their friends were going to football games and parties, the twins worked on 7th Avenue in Ybor City selling newspapers and shining shoes. Once out of high school, they started their tile business with their younger brother, Anthony Arena. They sang for a program called, “The Fiesta in Tampa,” held at the Cuban Club on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights. They also sang at the Royal Theater. Once drafted into the service, Andrew served as a mess hall cook and soon was seen with his brother singing for the USO alongside Connie Frances and Lloyd Price. At the age of 28, The Arena Twins signed with Kapp Records and released their original songs, “Mama Cara Mama,” “Judy Says,” and “In My Wallet.” From there, they signed with Columbia Records touring the country playing in bandstands. The Arena Twins sang in some of the finest ballrooms in New York City, Miami, the Catskills, and Las Vegas. The brothers appeared on the strip in Vegas for years and sang with some of the biggest names in the business. On one of his visits home, to Tampa, Andrew met his wife, Judy Galindo, and the two were married on May 7, 1961. Andrew then continued his career in the tile business. In Andrew’s words, “We had nothing and we ended up doing pretty good for ourselves. I think we did, anyway. It was challenging and it was hard. . . very, very hard work.” For having contributed so significantly to improve our community in business and entertainment, Mayor Sandra Freedman proclaimed September 16, 1989, “Arena Twins Day”. In recognition of dedicated service the America’s Armed Forces and their families, the USO presented Andrew Arena with the distinguished Great American award. On Valentine’s Day 1993, the Board of County Commissioners of Hillsborough County commended Andrew and Sammy for being outstanding citizens who contributed unselfishly to the betterment of the community through both their business and artistic abilities. In 2012 The Tampa City Council recognized The Arena Twins for their 5 decades of providing joy and entertainment to multitudes of adoring fans. Aside from his commendations and awards, his 3 children, 10 grandchildren and two great grandchildren were the source of his pride and his greatest achievements. Andrew Arena passed away on May 9, 2020 and he has reunited with his wife, Judy and his twin brother, Sammy. Andrew Arena is survived by his brother, Anthony Arena, sister, Marie Leggett, brother-in-law, Donald Leggett, children, Andrew, Richard and Melody Arena, daughters-in-law, Kim and Joselle Arena as well as grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many friends. The family gathered weekly and for some, daily and it never felt like an obligation or a burden. Spending time together was always an honor. He will forever be entertaining and singing joyously in our hearts. Family will be receiving Family and Friends on Monday May 18, after 12 noon at their home 1741 Eldred Drive Tampa Fl, 33603 A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Andrew Arena

September 1, 1931 - May 9, 2020

Obituary & Service

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Andrew Arena

September 1, 1931 - May 9, 2020

Obituary & Service

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