HONORING JORGE "KIKI" LOPEZ III
Jorge “Kiki” Lopez, 46, departed from this life on December 18, 2025, at Duke
University Hospital, after a brief, but courageous, battle with a glioblastoma brain tumor.
He was surrounded by love with his spouse, mother, and a few close friends at his side.
Kiki, a dedicated spouse, father, son, brother, coach, and friend was born in Key West
on March 8, 1979, to Jorge “Kiko” and Norma Lopez, becoming the little brother to Jose
Lopez. Kiki is a proud graduate of the Key West High School class of 1997, where many of his life-long friendships were formed. Kiki enjoyed playing many different sports throughout his youth, especially football, where he learned many of the lessons that he would pass along later in life as a coach. During this time, Kiki often brought friends to his family’s restaurant, El Cacique, to enjoy food that his mom and family prepared with love, keeping him and his teenage friends full and happy. In Kiki’s senior year of high school, he met and successfully pursued the love of his life,
Carly Bervaldi, with whom he continued to love and share his life with for almost 30 years, until his sudden and unexpected illness and passing. Kiki and Carly have one son, Austin Xavier Lopez, who was the absolute center of Kiki’s world. Kiki was an amazing father who was dedicated to giving Austin the best life imaginable. Kiki’s legacy will live on through Austin and the incredible love and affection that he instilled in him. Kiki had a one-of-a-kind, big personality with the heart to match. He shared his love with his family and friends, and also with his community that he held so dearly. Kiki volunteered his time to the youth of Key West, by coaching both baseball and football teams. Kiki wanted to help the youth of the community grow and thrive by teaching them the skills of the game, along with the values of teamwork, confidence, fairness, and heart. His impact will be felt for years to come. Kiki was happy to share his big heart and became a true friend to many. He was incredibly funny, full of life, and could light up any room with his smile and contagious laugh the moment he walked in. Kiki’s big personality carried into his career at FKAA,
where he enjoyed working for almost 25 years. He especially enjoyed his time with the customer service field rep crew, keeping his coworkers on their toes with his daily banter and discussions/ arguments. Kiki will truly be missed by his family, friends, coworkers and many more who knew him. Kiki is preceded in death by his father, Jorge “Kiko” Lopez, his Abuela Caridad Cabrera, and his father-in-law Richard Bervaldi. He is survived by his love Carly, son Austin, mother Norma, and brother Jose, along with a loving extended family of Tios, Tias, nieces, nephews, cousins, great nieces, and many devoted friends. Our family wants to extend a special thank you to the family and friends who traveled to visit Kiki while he was hospitalized in Miami and North Carolina. Your visits meant so much to Kiki, and we will be forever grateful for your love and support, and for the genuine love, smiles, and happiness you brought to Kiki’s life during his illness. Kiki was a true light and brightened the lives of so many. Although Kiki’s illness was abrupt and he was taken from us so quickly, he found ways to keep others laughing and smiling until the very end. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his light and joyous spirit that lives on and continues to shine brightly through the smiles and laughter of those he loved.
HONORING JOHN "JUANITA" GRAUSE
John Grause
1961-2025
Juanita moved to Key West from Iowa in the early 1980s and made it his home for 20 years. On his island in the sun, he befriended many. He shared his love of Scrabble, Aunt Rose’s, reading, sitting at the pool on Ramrod, Christmas caroling, using your voice for justice, the Deli, flamingoes, and anything from Heliographics. So many of us were many miles from home, and he helped create a sense of family, our Tribe. For that, we are forever grateful, as were our families, to know we had such a good friend.
John returned home in 2003 to help his mom, becoming her primary caregiver. He and his mother often sang songs and hymns to captivated audiences on Facebook, as well as working on her garden together. Her dahlias won awards. He was able to spend time with family and made many new friends, as he was a catalyst in the gay community of Humboldt, using his words and his voice. To stave off the effects of winter, he would go to Puerto Rico and recharge.
Wherever Juanita went, a mumu was packed, along with sunscreen, a carton of cigarettes, a book, a coffee maker, and a good time. We hope he is on his own island in the sun, swimming with flamingoes.
HONORING GLENN HAYES JR.
Glenn A. Hayes, Jr was born on October 4, 1973, to Glenn A. Hayes, Sr and Mildred White in Miami, Florida.
Glenn Jr was a fashion connoisseur known as “Mr. GQ” who was always well groomed and clean cut.
He graduated from Key West High School class of 1991. He completed correctional officer training and acquired his CDL license for driving charter buses and limousines.
He was a certified plumber and a carpenter apprentice.
Glenn Jr was a dedicated member of Saint James First Missionary Baptist Church in Key West, Florida before relocating to Georgia. He was a member of the Coral City Elks Lodge 610 and an avid fisherman.
Glenn Jr married Brittney (Bri) Jordan on October 24, 2016,
On Monday April 7, 2025, Glenn A. Hayes, Jr departed his earthly home and is missed dearly by family, friends and neighbors.
Glenn Jr was preceded in death by his mother Mildred White and his uncle Valgene A. Hayes, Jr.
Glenn Jr leaves to cherish his memory his wife: Brittney Hayes of Georgia; father: Glenn A. Hayes, Sr of Key West, FL; two brothers: Bertrum A. Hayes of Orlando, FL and Nathaniel A. Hayes of Key West, FL; niece: Nova Seylah Hayes; two uncles: Arnett Hayes of Key West, FL, and Arthur A. Hayes, Sr (Donna) of Fort Lauderdale, FL; aunt Sherlyn Hayes-O’Neal (Arthur) of Fort Lauderdale, FL; godbrother Trenton (Poppie) Richardson of Key West, FL and numerous cousins, friends and neighbors.
HONORING RICHARD LAWRENCE GRAND JEAN
Richard Lawrence Grand-Jean died January 16, 2026.
Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, Rick was devoted as well to his many close friends. He was wise, decent, a fierce believer in social justice, a towering and resilient spirit in the face of relentless illness during his last chapter.
Born August 4, 1942, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Fred and Esther Grand-Jean, along with his beloved identical twin Steven, he graduated from Clayton High School in 1960, Princeton in 1964, and the University of Chicago Law School in 1967. He helped create the London office of the Salomon Brothers Investment Bank and later became a partner in the firm. He worked in the 1968 McCarthy presidential campaign, was a founder of Democrats Abroad in London, a founder of the influential local newspaper The Santa Barbara Independent, and led a life of political activism to the end. Rick was an avid tennis player with a mean American twist serve, a huge fan of the Chelsea Football Club, a born storyteller, polymath intellect, and voracious reader. He married the journalist Christine Doudna in 1983, had two magnificent children, Molly and Michael, and lived the second half of his life in New York City and on Martha’s Vineyard. He had a gift for deep and lasting friendship, a sparkling wit, a great love of life. In addition to his wife and children, he leaves behind two adored grandsons, Beckett and Hugo, his brother Steven and sister Mimi, and many nephews and nieces. He also leaves a world bereft of his passion to make it better.
We will carry him in our hearts forever
HONORING RICHARD NAZELROD
Richard Anthony Nazelrod
August 21, 1953 – March 26, 2025
It is with great sadness and heavy hearts we announce the passing of
Richard Anthony Nazelrod. He left this world on March 26, 2025 at the
age of 71. He was born on August 21, 1953 in Baltimore, Maryland to
his parents Willard Nazelrod & Mary DeJuliis Nazelrod. Rick was an
amazing and loving husband of Deborah Ann Solesky. Devoted father
of Timothy Andrew Nazelrod, Amanda Marie Jeffries and Joseph Brock
Nazelrod. Loving grandfather of Adelynn Haylee Nazelrod, Clara Jayne
Nazelrod and Nora Ann Nazelrod. He is also survived by his beloved
brother and sisters: Eugene Nazelrod, Barbara Nazelrod, Paula
Nazelrod and Joanne Prinzhorn.
Rick had an infectious smile, a kind spirit and made everyone feel
included. He was the life of the party and had a magnetic energy. He
had a surprising love of sweets – Berger cookies, Krispy cremes and
Caramel creams. He once ate five boxes of Berger cookies in one
sitting. Rick loved country music, his Baltimore Birds and convinced he
thought Johnny Walker Scotch was a complete food group. He was
always there when you needed him, would always answer the phone,
and would listen if you needed advise. He would help anyone build
their deck, give you a ride to the airport or answer your latest injury
question. Rick was the true definition of supportive and dependable.
He was a great cook and made the best prime rib on Christmas night.
One Christmas, in his pursuit of achieving that “best prime rib”, his
enthusiasm resulted in the grill and house siding catching on fire. It was
still a great Prime Rib.
We jokingly called him “big Rick”, but he did in fact earn his title. He
was an unbelievable athlete and held many state records in sports. He
was an all-American catcher in baseball, played in the minor leagues on
Johnny Leones team and was scouted for the Kansas City Royals. He
once hit a hole in one on the golf course, would never complain when
he was in pain, was read his last rights three times in his life and even at
the end – his doctors called him a miracle child and superman.
Rick shared an unconditional love and devoted friendship with his wife,
Debbie. They built a beautiful life together and were lucky enough to
travel the world including living on a beautiful houseboat in Key West,
Florida at Garrison Bight Marina for several years where the most
amazing, lifetime friendships which will never be forgotten. Key West
was Rick’s most favorite place in the world with countless beautiful
memories.
Rick and Debbie continuously showed up for each other no matter
what, loved each other through thick and thin, and never missed a
chance to slow dance together. The love they shared was inspiring with
last New Year’s Eve celebrating 40 years of marriage.
While it might feel impossible now with holes in our hearts . . .
celebrate the spirit of Rick and honor his memory. Live a little like him
. . . enjoy scotch, never miss a chance to slow dance with the love of
your life and make memories with your family every chance you get.
Rick was a man who touched many lives with heart-felt memories
never to be forgotten.
HONORING ROBERT "ROBBIE" NICHOLS
HONORING FRED MOORE
Fred Anton Moore, age 63, of Key West, passed away Saturday, June 6, 2020 at Lower Keys Medical Center, Key West, Florida.
Fred was born, January 25, 1957, in Spring Valley, Illinois, the son of Robert Cecil and Edith (Bubb) Moore. He married Laura Moore on February 22, 1995, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Fred spent 30 years in Law Enforcement, he served as an officer with the Sterling Police Department for 7 years. He then joined the Illinois State Police and was recognized as the first officer to serve on land, sea and air. He retired in 2008 at the rank of Lieutenant and Bureau Chief of Air Operations.
Fred loved spending time with his family and many friends from around the country especially those whom he grew close with during his retirement in Key West. He loved music, flying, boating, skiing, biking, riding his Harley Davidson, a great conversation, gardening, summer road trips with the family, game nights, his first cup of coffee ever morning, a great steak, a margarita, a rum & coke with a lime & so much more!!
Fred was fondly called Derf (Fred spelled backwards) by many =) he loved this little island & all of the people he met here as strangers, who quickly became treasured friends.
He impacted countless lives throughout his career and countless more after, simply by being himself - kind, loving, and gracious. He may not be physically present with us, but he has given us so many amazing signs to let us know he is still with us.
Fred has a bench in memory of him at the White Street Pier, he loved that Pier! If you’re in the area, please stop & sit with him for a moment, it’s a beautiful place to take in a sunset! Walking out the pier, after you cross the first footbridge, his bench is the 3rd one on the right #LongLiveFred
HONORING JERI GORMLEY
Jerilyn “Jeri” Smith Gormley was a wonderful wife, mother,
grandmother, neighbor and friend. She was interested in people, in
what they had to say, how they lived, and in how she could help.
Jeri worked hard to do her best in everything. For example, she tried
hard to please her dad. Jeri’s father had no sons but was fortunate to
have his daughter, Jeri, who accompanied him on many camping
trips, loved the outdoors, and hiking in the mountains near Medford,
Oregon where she grew up. Jeri’s father was a hunter and member
of the Medford Rifle Club. When Jeri was 8 years old, her father
taught her how to shoot a 0.22 rifle at the Club shooting range. Jeri
was quick to learn and by age 10 won medals as the club’s
champion child target shooter.
Teaching 4th graders was Jeri’s favorite. She encouraged the children
to learn, be considerate of each other, and be all they could. One of
her best stories was when you insult someone, it is like pounding a
nail into a shingle. When you say I am sorry, you take the nail out, but
the hole is still there.
Jeri enjoyed traveling, visiting people and new places, and becoming
good friends. At Oregon State University, she took the spring quarter
at a university in Mexico City. She learned how people lived and the
problems of poverty. After graduating from college, Jeri drove her
VW Beetle all around Europe with her friend Nancy. This trip inspired
her love to travel and to teach in Europe at a Department of Defense
school in Frankfurt, Germany. While there, she met her future
husband, Kevin Gormley, and continued her travels in her white, hot,
Porsche!
Over the years, Jeri and Kevin traveled to all 50 states, 36 state
capitals, many National Parks, and foreign countries with Hawaii,
Germany, and Australia being her favorites.
Jeri loved trips, but she was the happiest when at home with her
family. The holidays were special. She hosted Thanksgiving,
Christmas and Easter dinners with family including her sons Robert
and Kevin, wives Kari and Maureen, grandchildren William and
Kathleen, nieces Janet Hamlin and Sandra Pfeil, and friends.
Wherever she was, Jeri made lasting friendships with her co-workers
and neighbors: the Frankfurt teachers, the Alexandria, VA teachers,
the Winston Knolls neighbors and the South Run water aerobics
group. Jeri was an avid bridge player, and her Leewood Forst Bridge
Club met for over 50 years.
Jeri was happy, enthusiastic and personality plus. She listened to
people, was a good friend, and uplifted people. She was there to
help!
We will all miss her.
HONORING CHARLES BUTLER
HONORING CLARENCE ALCE JR.
Clarence Theodore Alce Jr., affectionately known as "Dreambo," was born on September 1, 1941, in Key West, FL. He passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025, in Orlando, FL, at the age of 83. Clarence was a man whose laughter and charm filled every room he entered.
Clarence graduated from Frederick Douglass High School in 1960, where he excelled on the basketball court, showcasing his talent and teamwork. His dedication to his country was evident through his service in the Army, where he served for two years as a Cannon Crewmember. Following his military service, Clarence committed himself to a career as an Auto Mechanic in civil service, where he worked diligently for over 30 years.
His interests and hobbies painted the picture of a man who found joy in life's simple pleasures. Dreambo was an avid fan of sports, always ready to watch a game of football, basketball, or baseball. He loved cooking and was also not a stranger to visiting casinos. His Jove for the casino was well-known among his friends and family. Those who knew him will remember Clarence as a funny, interesting, and incredibly handy individual who could always be counted on to fix anything that needed repair.
Dreambo's life was rich with the Love of his family. He leaves behind his beloved partner, Elvira Sawyer. Other family members who will deeply miss his presence include his children, Michael Ferguson (Benita), Cynthia Wright, Pamela Ginger (Donovan), and Corneil Alce (Danielle), they will carry forward his legacy of kindness and humor.
Dreambo was a cherished PaPa to Elvira's two children and six grandchildren, as well as his own 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, all of whom adored him.
He is survived by his siblings, Oreatha Thompson and Alvin Alce (Dehavelyn), who will fondly remember their brother's infectious laughter and unwavering support. Clarence also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and a brother-in-Jaw, all of whom he loved dearly.
Dreambo was preceded in death by his parents, Lucille Fisher Alce and Clarence Alce Sr., as well as his siblings Adell Alce Carey, Clarice Alce Chapple, Clayton Alce, and Audrey Alce Allen.
Clarence Theodore Alce Jr. lived a life full of !aughter, love, and service. His memory will be treasured and kept alive through the stories shared by those who loved him. As we say goodbye to Dreambo, we celebrate a life well-lived and a man well-loved. His spirit will continue to inspire and guide us, just as the memories of his warmth and wit will comfort us in the days to come.
HONORING THEODORIS NAVARRO
Theodoris 'Mommie' Frances Navarro was the second child born to Annie Lou and Theodore Navarro. She blessed the world on a beautiful Monday morning on October 8, 1951, in Key West, Florida.
Theodoris was educated in the Monroe County Public School System. Realizing her innate gift to nurture people of all walks of life, she became a certified nursing assistant.
In 1968, upon giving birth to her only child, Trenton 'Poppy' Richardson, seeking to conquer the challenges of single motherhood, Theodoris was compelled to explore greater career opportunities. She entered the world of banking and worked for First Federal Savings & Loan and Barnett Bank for many years.
Continuing to work her way up the ladder of success, she obtained a position with Chicago Title, where she also exhibited longevity. In 2010 due to the deepwater horizon oil spill, her position with Chicago Title was eliminated.
Theodoris possessed a strong work ethic. In 2011, she embarked on yet another career path. She entered public service when she accepted a position with the Monroe County Clerk of Court Felony Department, where she served as a court clerk until her retirement in November of 2022.
Throughout Theodoris' life she was blessed to travel by land, air and sea. She enjoyed meeting people and enhancing her life's experiences. She was altruistic and gave of herself without hesitation.
One of Theodoris' greatest gifts was her ability to cook. She showed her love by feeding others. Whether she was mixing up a batch of her famous conch fritters, making meals using her mother's South Carolina recipes, or creating her own version of foods from her favorite cooking shows, Theodoris' food was loved by family and friends alike and she proved to be one of Key West's finest culinary artists.
Theodoris leaves behind a loving legacy, cherished by her beloved son, Trenton Richardson, Sr.; two grandchildren, Trenton (Youman) Richardson, Jr. and Kavean (Olivia) Richardson; and four great-grandchildren, Tristan, Tamari, Kavean, Jr., and Elizabeth. She is also survived by two dear siblings, Raymond (Joan) Navarro and Elizabeth Carr; Devoted nieces and a nephew, Connie (Shawn) Navarro-Allen, Carla Navarro, Danielle Navarro, Raymond (Angela) Navarro, Jr., Deanna Navarro, Barbara Jones, Peggy Allan, Lynn Givens, Linda Williams, Joni Brand, Robert James, Norice James, and Gregory James. As well as a host of great nieces, great nephews, cousins and friends. Theodoris was a loving godmother to Cherie Small and Taurean Roberts, and held close the friendships of Althea, Carolyn, Cetha, Lavonne, Portia, and Zelda.
HONORING CHERYL MONIZ
HONORING BRETT ANGUS
Brett was the kind of man the world needs more of kind, generous, loyal, and quietly heroic. The kind that could crack you up when you least expected it.
He was also a passionate chef, always creating something new in the kitchen. Food was his love language. He cooked from the heart and shared it freely.
And of course, he loved his Star Trek reruns and frozen pizza nights, proving that even great chefs have their comfort classics. If you ever heard his big sigh, you knew he was about to help someone, even if he pretended to grumble about it first.
A loyal friend, a loving father and grandfather. His dream was to live a quiet chef's life in Key West surrounded by his tribe. He loved deeply, laughed loudly, and left everyone a little warmer, a little fuller, and a lot more loved
HONORING FRANK R. LEGGETT SR.
Frank, affectionately known as Rudy or Big Rudy, the fourth of eight children, was born October 12,
1936, to the late Samuel Donzel Leggett and Alice Grace Edden Leggett, in Key West, Florida.
Rudy graduated from Douglas High School, where he was a member of the choir and played
football for the "Fighting ngers.- During his sophomore year, he began courting Joan Yvonne
Allen, whom he married on July 28, 1956.This union was blessed with four children, Frank Jr.,
Adriene Lynne, Judy and Donzel.
Our daddy had a long and dedicated career working for Southern Bell (which later became Bell
South), where he retired after 42 years of service. During his career, he was a "fearless Lineman"
who worked on telephone poles throughout the Florida Keys. Following his retirement, he spent his
time relaxing on his porch and enjoying the sunshine in Key West.
Rudy was Poppy to ten grandchildren: Frank Leggett III, Nikia Leggett Croslin, Emanuel Leggett
Clark, Joanna Nichols, Daniel Leggett Clark, Donzel Leggett II, Sierra Leggett, Joanell Leggett and
Gianna Leggett. In addition he was also Poppy to ten great grandchildren.
Rudy was predeceased by his parents, Samuel Donzel Leggett and Alice Grace Edden Leggett,
and seven siblings, S. Donzel Leggett, Gilbert Leggett, Olga Leggett Thompson, William R.
Leggett, Lemuel Leggett, Leonard R. Leggett and Alvin Oliver Leggett.
“Just whisper my name in your heart and I will be there”
HONORING DEANGELO "BOOGIE" RIVAS
Deangelo Enrique (Woogie) Rivas, beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend, went to be with the Lord on May. 14, 2025, at the age of 25. Deangelo brought laughter, joy and happiness to everyone around him. He had a smile that radiated his infectious joy and the biggest, most tender heart. His laugh will forever echo in the minds of those blessed to know him. He will be remembered for his deep devoted loyalty & youthful soul.
Deangelo was born July 5, 1999 in Key West, Florida. He grew up in a community he loved where he enjoyed time with family and friends, but more than anything, playing sports. He spent so much time on the football field playing running back. He developed a deep passion for the sport and played through high school. He made so many life-long friendships on the field that remained throughout his life. He was someone everyone gravitated towards.
Preceded in death by Mother Anitra Brown ; Grandmother Oreathea Rivas Brown ; Grandfather Ervin Higgs ; Great grandfather Leroy Rivas ; Great grandmother Elizabeth Rivas ; Great Uncle Irving “Sonny” Rivas
He is survived by his Bonus Parents Steve and Mindy Vinson ; his siblings Jakay Mack, Demetri Rivas, Lindsey (Charles) Vazquez, Erik Vinson, Logan (Jeremy) Johnigean, Spenser Vinson ; Grandparents Wayne and Wallis Holmes, Sandra Higgs ; Uncles Averie Rivas, Alvin (Candice) Brown, Enrique Brown, Doug (Leslie) Holmes ; Aunt Lakeisha McCoy; Great Aunts Veronica(Charles) Rivas-Butler, Aloma Rivas-McCoy, Paulette Rivas ; Cousins Shanita (Keith) Rivas-Hodges, Averie (Jodi) Rivas Jr, Antonio Rivas, Alvin Brown Jr, Alyssa Brown, Orville Garvey Jr., Cruz Holmes ; Nieces and Nephews Noel Vazquez, Chase Vazquez, Cousin & Godmother Destiny Rivas
He spent his days working at The Key West Airport as a Ramp Agent for Silver Airways. Pilots and frequent passengers would light up when they saw him working their flight. While that was his job, his true passion was cooking. He made the most delicious meals for family & friends. He was the most selfless man who would give the shirt off his back for anyone. He was everyone’s go-to person. Though his time on this Earth was short, the relationships, friendships and bonds he made will live on forever. He touched countless lives and left a lasting impact on the hearts of so many.
HONORING MARIE LOU YARBROUGH
Marie Lou (Zarate) Yarbrough, 76, of Key West, Florida, passed away on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Marie was born on April 7, 1949, in Manhattan, New York. She moved to Key West, Florida, at a young age and graduated from Key West High School in the Class of 1968. She met her husband, Thomas (Tommy) Yarbrough, Class of 1964, shortly after graduating, and they married soon after. Thomas joined the military, and after his service, they returned to Key West, where they raised their two sons, Jason and Joshua.
Marie embarked on a long and fulfilling career with Porter Allen Insurance Company, where she served as an insurance professional admired for her 37 years of dedication and warm rapport with clients and colleagues, many of whom became like family.
A devoted matriarch, Marie’s greatest joy was spending time with her family—especially doting on her grandchildren, Jazlyn and Jason, know to them as Mimi. She was an avid seamstress whose colorful quilts and crafts reflected both her creativity and generosity. Marie sewed on Thursday mornings with the sewing ladies group at the 5th Street Baptist Church. She also looked forward to Tuesday night bingo with Pat Castro and friends and never missed her weekly sorority gatherings or girls' luncheons, where her laughter and camaraderie were cherished by all. She was a member of Presceptor Gamma and served as treasurer. Additionally, Marie was an avid yard sale enthusiast.
Marie was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, tia, mother-in-law, sister-in-law and friend. She is survived by her husband, Thomas Yarbrough; son, Jason (Donnie) Yarbrough; grandchildren, Jazlyn and Jason Yarbrough; sister, Sara Acevedo; and nephew, Joseph Henriquez. She is also survived by her brothers-in-law, Billy Yarbrough, Johnny (Sharon) Yarbrough, and Timmy (Dottie) Yarbrough, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends who were like family.
Marie was predeceased by her son, Joshua Yarbrough; father, Joseph Zarate; mother, Tessie Arencibia; stepfather, Simon Arencibia; and niece, Talia Acevedo.
HONORING FLEASHER HALL
Fleasher Ann Hall was born on November 13, 1963, in Key West, Florida, to the late Mitchell C. Hall Sr. & Juanita J. Hall. She lived her entire life in Key West.
Fleasher was a kind and humble soul who knew the Lord and accepted him at an early age as her Lord and Savior. During her most difficult times, Fleasher always relied on her faith, strength, and protection from God She was a mighty woman of God Her strength, joy and encouragement were the highlight of those who knew her and those she met along the way.
Fleasher attended Frederick Douglas School and Key West High School, graduating with the class of 1981. Upon completion of high school, Fleasher obtained her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Development from Florida Keys Community College. As she entered the workforce, she worked as a manager at Winn Dixie, a Director at Wesley House Child Care Center, a Cafe manager at Poinciana Elementary School, and she ended her career at Key West High School as the Office Assistant.
Throughout her walk with Lord, Fleasher held many positions within her church community. She served on the Ushers Board, sang in the Choir, was a member of the Women's Prayer Group, and she was an Elder. She enjoyed making the Sunday announcements.
Fleasher was a woman of many talents. Her love for arts and crafts was shared among her family and friends and throughout the community. She always loved to have family gatherings in which she would cook and bake and just fellowship with her surroundings neighbors.
Fleasher answered the Masters call on October 20, 2025. She was preceded in death by her son, Marques Butler, and her father, Mitchell C. Hall Sr.
HONORING JOHN WELSH
John Joseph Welsh, 77, of Key West passed away on July 10, 2025 surrounded by loved ones. Born in Brooklawn, New Jersey, on February 19, 1948, John led a remarkable life defined by service, warmth, and joy. He finished his race leaving behind 35 years of dedicated service that forever shaped our schools and community.
A proud Army veteran, John was awarded the Purple Heart for his service during the Vietnam War. After returning home, he devoted his life to education. He started his career at the Florida Marine Institute, an alternative school and joined the Monroe County School District in 1975 at Glynn Archer Junior High School.
In 1993, he was invited to sere at Sugarloaf School. After a brief hiatus, he returned in 1996 to Key West High School, where he served as assistant principal from 2002-2010. He touched countless young lives, always keeping his door-and heart-open, encouraging students to believe in themselves. His calm, patient nature and sense of humor made him a beloved friend and mentor. Mr. Welsh led with humility and strength. His personal mission was to make a difference in the lives of students every single day- Especially those who needed it most. Thousands of young lives were impacted by his compassion, guidance, and dedication.
John's passions aside from shaping young lives included fishing, diving, and running marathons across the world, from Pikes Peak to The Great Wall of China. He was a devoted member of The Rotary Club and cherished his time on the water. Above all, he adored his family, remaining a playful grandfather and a loving father.
John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda. He is survived by his sons, John and Stephen Welsh, and four grandchildren. John's memory will live forever in the hearts of his family, friends, students, and community.
HONORING ARMANDO "BOOKIE" JOSEPH HENRIQUEZ
On February 14, our family lost our hero. Armando Joseph Henriquez (Bookie) left this world peacefully after a long illness. His presence was strongly felt by many and we are eternally grateful for his devotion to his family. Without question, he offered his wisdom and unconditional support to all who asked. Bookie was a visionary, and it was evident in his work as Superintendent and his planning for his family. Bookie lived a life committed to his family, education, and community service. His legacy will live on through the lives he influenced.
Bookie was born on June 19, 1934, to Rafael and Francis Henriquez in Key West, Florida. He had a desire at a young age to attend college, so he began selling newspapers and doing odd jobs throughout his teenage years to make his dream come true. After graduating from Key West High School in 1952, he went to Florida State University and then went on to earn a degree in Pre-Medicine from the prestigious Duke University. In 1963, he completed a Master of Arts in Education degree from Western Carolina University and in 1980, a Doctorate in Philosophy from the Union of Experimenting and Philosophies University. He also served his country in the Army and Army Reserve.
When he returned to Key West in 1958, he began an amazing 37-year career as an educational leader. He was a teacher at heart and felt strongly about public education and the ability of one teacher to forever change a life. His career started as a science teacher at his alma mater, and he quickly moved to become a guidance counselor due to his strength in building relationships. Dr. Ruth Alice Campbell tapped him to be Assistant Superintendent and in 1968 he became Monroe County School District Superintendent of Schools, a position he held for 24 years. As a passionate leader, he transformed the school district into a School-Based Management system with trust and confidence. He firmly believed that effective principals and assistant principals were the key to great schools and he worked tirelessly to provide training and support. As Superintendent, he made major impacts including setting a goal for computers for every student and creating the Superintendent’s Young Reader’s Award, one he proudly gave to the recipients himself. Monroe County was the first district to desegregate all schools, which took team building and community relations which he excelled in. Due to his close working relationship with the military, he was able to assist the district in obtaining the administrative property on Trumbo for $1 where a building bearing his name stands today. Among his many educational recognitions, some of the most prestigious was being named Superintendent of the Year for the State of Florida and chosen by the Governor as a delegate to visit the educational system in Japan. His passion for our community and his unwavering belief in public education enriched the school district in countless ways and left an indelible legacy.
In 1958, Bookie married the love of his life, Judy Stone, and created an amazing family. Their life was filled with family events, many friendship gatherings, community events and traveling the world. Trusted friendships blossomed and they created countless memories that included their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and all their friends. The Henriquez household was always a lively place with a welcoming open door.
In 1994, Bookie retired from the Monroe County School District and began his second career at Fringe Benefits Management Company. In 2004, he retired and spent his time traveling, working on puzzles and watching sports with family. He also made his life-long ambition of learning to play the piano a reality. He credits his masterful teacher, Yehuda Guttman for this accomplishment.
Bookie was predeceased by his father, Rafael; mother, Francis; brothers Ralph (Moe) and Julio (Waffie); his brother-in-law Jose Pepe Rodriguez, his beloved niece, Isabel Rosado and his son-in-law, Thomas Butler. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Judy, his sister, Juanita Rodriguez, and sister-in-law Teresa Henriquez; his children Debbie (Thomas), Lori, Michael (Gaby), Frannie (Sam), Stephan (Claudia), and Joseph (Ashley). Bookie and Judy were blessed with grandchildren, Daniel Padron, Evan Tingley, Ryan Tingley, Michael Henriquez (Alexis), Amanda Henriquez-Shultz (Henry), Anthony Henriquez, Kevin Florez, Nicholas Henriquez, Roman Faraldo, Payton Brees (Brecker), and Mateo Ospina; great-grandchildren, Treydell, Tyrie, Zachary, Zamia, Jachai, Amairi, Kailani, Sarai, Shai , Roman, Josiah, Avianna, Ava, Grayson, Camryn Rae, Evan, Maxon, Phoenix, Ula. Each has brought them such joy and kept them young.