Joe Viana
Community Hero
In Paradise for Good – July 23, 2021
Joe Viana was a kind and caring man and was a joy to know. He and his husband Ray Baker were incredible supporters of theater, symphony, art, and music and attended all the plays, musicals, and events in town during the 35 years they lived in Key West. Their friends have grand memories of their marvelous parties, and especially their wedding reception. Joe and Ray were passionate about bringing world class performers to Key West. Joe served as Treasurer of the Fringe Theater Key West from 2011 through 2018. He was recognized as its “Unsung Hero” in 2017.
Joe and Ray donated over $350,000 to the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys to benefit local nonprofits and created the Ray Baker and Joe Viana Performing Arts Endowment in 2011 to foster excellence in the performing arts. The fund, now over half a million dollars, makes grants every year to Key West-based theater and classical music organizations. These have included the Fringe Theater, Key West Impromptu Classical Concerts, and the Bahama Village Music Program.
Thank you, Joe, for Leaving a Legacy in Key West and the Florida Keys.