ALVAREZ, Arthur A. (“Artie”), born on November 21, 1942, passed on July 14, 2021. He approached every aspect of his charmed life with an entertainer’s commitment to the audience and assigned role. A fourth generation Tampeño, he went from selling sodas at Elvis’s first show in Tampa to becoming the city’s first pop idol as the co-founder and front man of The Fabulous Rockers. House parties alongside childhood friend, Sapi, soon evolved into two sold-out shows every weekend in Tampa and St. Petersburg, alongside cherished friends, Onelio, Donna, and Yoka. Linebacker, co-captain, and city champion with the 1959 Jefferson Dragons. He dated and later married the homecoming queen. Lyricist and singer of the perennial favorite, “Would I Still Be Loving You.” Headlined the Peppermint Lounge in NYC and recorded at Criteria Studios in Miami. He was a member of the inaugural freshman class at USF and later a graduate. Photographed JFK just four days before Dallas. Shook hands with a young Ali in Miami. A dependable scotch man, he consorted with astronauts and other notables of the day, but preferred the company of Gus, his lifelong pal and confidant. Son of a principled father, Artie raised his own sons, Chris and Rick, similarly and successfully. Grandfather, holiday elf, and St. Patty’s leprechaun to Christian, Darren, Evangeline, and Julian. He was blessed with a second act of semi-retirement, when he thrived as a beachcomber, fitness instructor, Harley Davidson enthusiast, creative writer, second father to Angie and Je’Anna, and husband to Sharon, his greatest fan for over 30 years.






Although I only met Artie is passing as we occupied his home with laughter and prayer during our women’s Bible study’s….. he was truly a AAA Kind of guy. We are here for you my sister Sharon. May God be with you in this time of sorrow and fill you heart with the joy of your memories. ❤️❤️❤️
Loved you cousin 😔. Would be happy to hear from those of you who knew me and cared for Artie… Roland Lara 305 790-8557
Sharon and Family,
We were so sorry to hear of Artie's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Kathy Lluis Jerman and Family
Tampa, FL