2024 Honoree

Honoring Tom Corcoran

Thomas Franklin Corcoran, 79, died and left us for his next great adventure on January 16, 2023. 

Tom grew up in Cleveland Heights and Shaker Heights with his two younger sisters who survive him. He also leaves behind 2 sons, 2 granddaughters, a brother-in-law, niece, nephew, and other relatives, as well as many friends and fans around the world.

Tom graduated from Miami University of Ohio, and upon graduation served as an officer in the U.S. Navy. Stationed in Key West for a time, he found his spirit's home and moved here in 1968 following his honorable discharge from the Navy. He ultimately lived in Key West or nearby for the rest of his life, visiting often in person and even more often in his storytelling and writing. Tom’s time in Key West was, like Tom himself, both understated and profound. He had a way of finding himself in the middle of great stories without knowing precisely how he got there. He also had a way of remembering every detail, perhaps due to his unique talent for being truly present, which made everyone he encountered feel like the center of the universe, at least for that moment. 

It was in Key West where, serving tacos off the back of his bicycle and bartending in The Chart Room bar, that he met and developed lifelong friendships with a group of writers and musicians who would become giants in their fields. Stories still abound of their misadventures on the island. Tom is most recently known for his Alex Rutledge mystery series, set in and around Key West, but his talents were many. In addition to co-writing lyrics for the Jimmy Buffett favorites, Fins and Cuban Crime of Passion, and co-writing multiple songs with John Frinzi, he had been a disc jockey; AAA Travel Counselor; professional photographer; screenwriter; leather store owner and leather smith (check out Jimmy Buffett's Buried Treasure Vol. 1 and 2 album covers. Tom made the jacket and hat Jimmy is wearing); and an automotive magazine editor. His photos appeared on seven Jimmy Buffett album covers, and his portraits on numerous book jacket covers including novels by Tom McGuane, Hunter S. Thompson, and Winston Groom’s Forrest Gump.  Over 160 of Tom's photos of the 1970s and 1980s were collected in 2008’s award-winning book, Key West in Black and White. 

Tom, who embodied the term "Renaissance Man'', also wore the hat of a publisher and founded Ketch and Yawl Press, producing and distributing titles such as The Railroad That Died at Sea; Yesterday's Florida Keys; Key West and the Spanish-American War; Yesterday's Key West; Papa Hemingway in Key West; and Jimmy Buffett - the Key West Years. 

And, of course, Tom was the renowned raconteur who would regale and delight rapt audiences with outrageous (but true) stories of adventures with friends the likes of Jimmy Buffett and all those in his early orbit, Hunter S. Thompson, P.J. O’Rourke, Jim Harrison, and Tom McGuane, among others. 

The loss of Tom has been staggering; the gift of him immeasurable. In the 2024 Crooks Annual Second Line Parade we remember and celebrate the life of this brilliant;  outrageously funny; multi-talented writer and photographer; master storyteller; bibliophile; music connoisseur and one-of-a-kind bright light. Sail on, dear friend. You are deeply missed. 



Honoring Joaquin Antonio Barroso

Joaquin Antonio Barroso affectionately known as “Tony”. Peacefully left this world on Christmas Eve Dec 24th, 2023. He was born November 23, 1942 to parents Alfredo and Louisa Barroso. He lived his entire life of 81 years here on the island he so much loved. He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Madeleine “Sue” Barroso; and his three children Patrick (Bonnie) Barroso, Blane (Tiffany) Barroso, Brian K. Barroso, Grandchildren; Cheyenne Barroso, Joaquin Barroso, Chance Barroso, Elise Webb, Catelyn Balbuena, Michael Balbuena, Great granddaughter; Naomi Barnett, Neice; Jillian Duclo, Sister; Vita Hope of Jacksonville, FL, and Sister in laws; Sandra Barroso, Rose, Pam, Robin and Carol, Cousins; Roger and Imy Swift. He is predeceased by his parents Alfredo and Louisa Barroso, his brother Barry Barroso Sr. and Sister Gay Lou Torrey. Tony was the youngest of four born and raised in Key West. Tony was a good man and father who loved Key West history, fishing, hunting, and the outdoors. His passing has left a huge void in our lives. The legacy he leaves is Family First, the love of animals and the outdoors, and also to be honest and humble. He started and co-owned Key West Plumbing Inc with his brother Barry Sr. and was known at the #1 Plumber in the #2 Business. Our family would like to thank all of those who have visited and showed their love for our father and for the acts of kindness and prayers.

Honoring Irving "Sonny" Rivas

Irving "Sonny" Bruce Rivas was born to Leroy Rivas and Elizabeth Terry Rivas, June 18,1948 on a beautiful radiant day of sunshine. His mother gave him the nickname "Sonny", and he was affectionately known as Uncle Sonny to most in the community. Irving Bruce Rivas gained eternal peace on July 8, 2023.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Elizabeth and Leroy Rivas; his siblings: Aretha Brown, Leroy Rivas and Harry Rivas; his Aunts: Willa Mae Burgohy, Doris Lawery and Lucille Terry; Niece: Anitra Brown and Brother-In-Law: Embrey McCoy.

He was christened in Bethel AME Church and was a lifetime member. He attended Douglass High School and graduated from Key West High School in 1966. In 1968, Irving was drafted into the United States Army, 6thBN (HAWK) 65thArty, during the Vietnam War, where he served honorably. His decorations: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Services Medal, Matrious Unit Citation, Army Commendation Medal, and Expert Badge.

Upon his return home, Irving studied at Florida A&M University where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Political Science in 1974. Irving was a very proud "Rattler".

Irving pursued a career in Education with the Monroe County School District for ten years. He continued his career with Department of Children and Families, serving the citizens of Monroe County for eight years. He retired from Comcast Corporation after a career of fifteen years, where he took pleasure in creating a lifetime of memories. His co-workers described him as dedicated, loyal, genuine, loving, outspoken, one of a kind, and supportive.

Growing up in a very close-knit family, Sonny's cousins were raised as his siblings. Sonny had a Love for his family and LIFE that was immeasurable. He poured his heart and soul into his family. He treated everyone with kindness, sharing the fruits of his labor. He had a strong influence and instilled the importance of education, independence and perseverance through life skills and challenges among all those he encountered.

He was a community activist with a strong work ethic, positive attitude, a God-fearing spirit, and a Love for advocacy. As a brother, father figure, and family member he demonstrated LOVE, compassion, humility, and strength with determination.

He was a "bridge over troubled waters" for many, he exemplified grace and was admired. Irving "Sonny'' Rivas was truly a man of unshakable conviction, great integrity, and honor.

Sonny had a passion for cooking, one of his many qualities. He enjoyed preparing his specialty dishes for family gatherings and events. His famous arroz con pollo, tuna pasta salad and baked hams, were all cooked to perfection and beautifully displayed.

He had a Love for sports, particularly, Tennis - watching the Williams Sisters, Venus and Serena, at the US, Australian, French Open, and Wimbledon. Sunday Football was a must and he enjoyed watching his favorite team, The Miami Dolphins. He appreciated his friendship with the fellas at the domino table.

Prior to his health issues, Sonny looked forward to his annual trips to Tallahassee, attending FAMU's Homecoming with all its festivities. Highlights include Marching 100's and visiting old friends.

In retirement, Sonny remained active in the community by volunteering his time helping several organizations and countless individuals. He was truly a humanitarian.

Sonny enjoyed shopping for his family and friends. When driving became somewhat difficult, you could find Sonny along with Kevin, Annette, or Adrian making their weekly trips around the community, then to the Commissary. Sonny was one of God's prophets, an Angel here on earth, feeding the hungry and sheltering anyone in need.

His conversations were early in the A.M., starting with routine callers and then with the Retirees; Kenny, Tense, Cleora, Kevin, Aloma and Veronica when visiting Key West, sitting on the famous Porch, enjoying their Cuban Bread and Cafe con leche, a Key West tradition. Sharing many stories, keeping everyone abreast, enjoying quality time, and reminiscing.

On July 4, 2018, Sonny received his call, 'We have a match, a Kidney awaits in Pennsylvania". Sonny along with his friend Pamela, headed to Pennsylvania to receive his Kidney transplant. Oh, what a blissful day that was! Cheering him on was his family and friends. God, we thank you!

The past five years have not been easy. The road of life became bumpy as he battled many health issues. While reflecting on his life, he quoted "I had a wonderful life and with beautiful friends and I'm grateful."

Honoring Franklin "Pint" Carey Sr.

Franklin Alexander Carey Sr.  affectionately known as (Pint) was born in Key West, Florida on September 30, 1944 to the late George C. Carey and Mispha G. Carey. In Pint’s early childhood he started his life in Christ at Cornish Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church.  He grew up in Bahama Village. Pint held many jobs throughout his life in Key West, FL. He was employed by Monroe County School District as a Bus Driver, Mosquito Control, Charlie Toppino & Sons, A & M Scooter Shop and his favorite job of them all was Monroe County Transportation Services because he loved helping the elderly in the community.

Pint was loved by so many people and gave love. He had a special love for his family and friends. He cherished the time spent with his family throughout the years. He was always willing to help a friend in need. He was sweet spirited with an infectious smile, and charismatic personality. You could find Pint telling jokes and making people laugh or smile.

On Wednesday, March 1, 2023 God saw his weariness. He answered the call because he knew God had kept his promise that he wouldn’t put too much on him that he couldn't bear. Now he is resting in the arms of the Lord. Pint will always be remembered by his family and numerous friends.

Honoring Albertha Harris Miller

Albertha Harris Miller, affectionately known as "Bertha," was a compassionate and caring woman who always went out of her way to help others - no matter what. Bertha was born on February 5, 1942, in Bryant, FL. She was the seventh of twelve children born to the late Sylvester Harris and Geraldine Perry Harris.

After the family moved to Key West, Florida, she attended Douglass High School where she excelled as a basketball player. She graduated from Douglass in the Class of 1960.

In 1963, Bertha met and married John Miller with whom she had two daughters, Lisa and Lori. Bertha and John were married until 1976. Bertha lived in San Diego, CA, and Cocoa Beach, FL, before returning home to Key West in 1976.

Bertha soon gained employment with Woolworth Department Store and was later em­ployed at Fausto's Food Palace. In April 1995, she transitioned into a career with the City of Key West working as a Parking Enforcement Specialist. She eventually went on to become a Parking Lot Attendant at the Historic Seaport, where her passion for people grew. Bertha greeted everyone with a smile and enjoyed every day in the "booth," as she would call it. She retired from the City of Key West in September 2009 as a Finance Revenue Cash Clerk.

Bertha was a woman of unwavering faith and compassion. These qualities were demon­ started by her devotion to St. James First Missionary Baptist Church where she was an active member. Her many positions at St. James included serving as a Deaconess and member of the Finance Board, Building Fund Committee, and Usher Board. Bertha also assisted with weekly dinner sales and Vacation Bible School, where she loved providing "Lilly Dilly's" to the children.

Bertha's love and commitment to the church were only rivaled by her love and commit­ment to her family and friends. More often than not, Bertha could be found driving her sister on errands in her Kia Soul, volunteering with senior citizen organizations, making food for the church, picking up her little nieces and nephews from school - to drive them to McDonald's or Dairy Queen, or extending her love and support to anyone in need.

Of all her pastimes, Bertha loved to play bingo. She played bingo weekly with her sister, Pollie, and her friend, Dorothy Sands. She even traveled over 1,000 miles to Washing­ ton, DC, once to play Super Bingo with her sister, Betty.

In October 2020, Bertha moved to New York to live with her daughter, Lisa, and son-in­ law, Dedrick, after her health began to fail. Despite the challenges, she persevered and fought through many health scares along the way. Her spirit throughout these challenges was a testament to her determination, resilience, and strength. She was never alone while fighting her health battles. Not a second went by that Bertha was not showered with love, tended to with care, and reminded every day of how much she was loved. Bertha spent every day blanketed in love from her family and friends until God called her home on September 8, 2023.

Honoring Ernestine Curry

Ernestine Payne Curry was born in Tallahassee, Florida on September 14, 1928, to the late Hobson Payne and Rosa Quintana.

She was raised in Newport, Rhode Island and moved to Key West, FL where she attended St. Francis Xavier Catholic School and graduated from Key West High School. She raised her siblings due to the untimely passing of her mother and their children affectionally refer to her as Auntie/Grandma.

Ernestine was married to the Love of her life James W. Curry, Jr. “Butch” for 75 years. To this union they were blessed with four (4) children: James, III “Butchie”, Regina, and Calvin who all preceded her in death. 

She worked for the Adult Education Department at Key West High School, cafeteria worker at Gerald Adams School and Nathan Eden.

She loved her church The Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea. She was a dedicated member of the Catholic Daughters of America. She volunteered in the Soup Kitchen. She was a former member of the Eastern Star. She was a member of the Royalettes Social Club and Golden Swingers. First female inductee of the Frederick Douglass School Black Educators Memorial project. A member of the Sacred Circle of Elders and recipient of the Rose Sands Lopez compassionate heart award.

Ernestine was a fun spirited soul who took on many passions. She was the kindest most loving and thoughtful person, with a kindred spirit. She was a listening ear. Her smile and bubbly personality would light up a room and NO was never in her vocabulary. She fashioned herself like Jesus and fed a multitude. She prepared meals for churches, families and prior to her illness would cook her infamous Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken and Yellow Rice) for the bereaved families in our community. She made monthly contributions to numerous Charites locally and nationally. She was a woman of poise, beauty, and elegance some would say she was a fashionista. She enjoyed playing Pokeno and Pitty-Pat with the ladies and gentlemen who she loved dearly.

Ernestine Payne Curry affectionately known as “Stina or Mama Stina” our Queen/Angel on earth passed away peacefully on September 26, 2023, at the tender age of 95.

Honoring Leo Rudolph Rivas Sr.

If a life well lived is measured by laughter, love, and faith, then Grandpa Leo had a life that was worth living. Leo was a man of unwavering faith and a strong sense of family values. He was known for his warm heart, infectious smile with the distinct Rivas gap, kind words for everyone he met, and giving spir­it. His remarkable life was a testament to the power of hard work, resilience, and the importance of cher­ishing the moments that Jehovah has blessed us with.

Born on July 24, 1935, to Leroy "Man" Rivas and Marjorie Knowles Rivas, Leo spent his childhood years alongside his siblings and cousins in what is now known as Bahama Village in Key West, FL.

After attending Douglas School, Leo enlisted in the United States Army and was shortly deployed to the mountains of Okinawa, Japan during the Korean War. Shortly after returning to Key West, Leo mar­ried his late wife, Pearlie Mae Rivas, and over the next 50+ years, raised his children Leo Jr. "Rudy", Linda, Larry, Lance "Ricky", and Lionel "Rodney". Yes, even as full-grown adults with families of their own, Leo's children - and grandchildren - were beholden to his life-long lessons; Lessons in faith, lessons in carpentry, plumbing, coconut pie making, late night QVC and HSN shopping, the list goes on. E V E R Y opportunity Leo had, he was determined to teach someone something...or in some cases, tell a corny joke or a long story about his time "up in them mountains".

As a father, Leo was a teacher and a protector; as a husband he was a provider and caretaker; but perhaps his greatest role was that of a Grandpa. 

Without a shred of a doubt, Leo loved his grandchil­dren and great-grandchildren - all 20 of them! Some of them he had the opportunity to see every day, some over FaceTime and the phone, others, he saw during special trips to beautiful places. Nonetheless, every time we called, through the blaring noise of the TV in the background, we could hear him yelling "hey baby", "whatcha say" or "hello" almost immediately followed by an "eh", "huh", or in his older years "hold on I can't find my hearing aid". Grandpa loved talking to his grand­children. While he was the butt of many jokes and pranks from his grandbabies, Leo enjoyed the laughter and warmth of spending time with his family.

While many may mourn a loved one during a time of loss, we are reminded of a life well lived. A life filled with experiences, stories, love, and most importantly faith. Leo taught all of us to have an open and giving heart - without expecting anything in return - and to love and treat others as you would want to be treated.

Honoring Roosevelt Sands Jr.

Roosevelt Charles Sands, Jr. was born in Key West, Florida, on October 1, 1930, as the fifth child and second son of Wilhelmina Cleare Sands and Roosevelt Sands, Sr. He attended the segregated Frederick Douglass School, where in 1948, he was cited in the student newspaper, The Douglass Town Crier, as one of the school's "Best Athletes." He graduated as the Senior Class President of the Class of 1949, a year during which he also served as Captain of the school's inaugural football team. Following graduation, he enrolled at Florida Agricultural & Mechanical College (FAMC), now Florida A&M University (FAMU), and became a member of the Rattler football team under the legendary Jake Gaither.

He withdrew from college to join the military in 1951 and enlisted in the United States Army attaining the ranks of Sergeant First Class and Acting First Sergeant and serving as an MP (Military Police) and Engineer. He is a Veteran of the Korean War and served with the Company B, 101st Signal Battalion Corps, a unit responsible for communications and information systems for the combined Armed Forces. Following that tour of duty, he served as a Sergeant in the US Army Reserves. After fifteen years of service to the military, he received an Honorable Discharge.

During the early part of his work history, which began while he was in high school, and for a period of 26 years, he worked in commercial industry as an air conditioning, refrigeration, and major appliance serviceman with the locally owned business, Home Appliance Company, formerly located at 611 Simonton Street. A significant change in vocation led to the start of a new career as an Occupational Specialist in the area of Vocational Counseling at Key West High School, where he was employed for a period of 21 years, from 1972 until his retirement in 1993 from the Monroe County School System. During this period, he was also an administrator of the County's Summer Youth Employment program.

Over his decades of public service and following the legacy established.by his father, Roosevelt Sands Sr., he was highly regarded for his own oratorical prowess. He was also admired for his gift of delivering resounding, powerful prayers and was called upon regularly to offer the prayer at the beginning of each Housing Authority meeting and frequently during church services in this very sanctuary. His moving and inspiring renditions of the speeches of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., including delivery of the "I Have a Dream" speech, carried a personally meaningful resonance when he was accompanied on the piano by his now deceased, youngest sister, Rose Sands Lopez. The King speeches were a trademark of his repertoire as well as, in earlier years, his recitation of a Biblically inspired version of the monologue, "The Deck of Cards. Through his work in the schools and the community, he has mentored countless youth, sharing his wealth of knowledge on Key West and African American history as a result of countless invitations from teachers, school administrators, and community organizations.

His contributions to the Key West community include holding the longest continuous service as a Key West Housing Authority Board Commissioner for a period of 52 years, in roles that included terms as Chairman and Vice Chairman. He also served as a Board member of the Florida Keys Community College Equal Access and Opportunity Board, a member of the Neighborhood Improvement Association, a now defunct local community organization; and a former member of the Free and Accepted Masons, Union Lodge #47. He served as Chair of the Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration and Scholarship Committee and a Committee member for over thirty-five years. He is a lifelong member of Comish Memorial A1vfE Zion Church, the church of his mother, Wilhelmina Cleare Sands, and his siblings. He served his church faithfully in many capacities, including on the Church Restoration and Renovation project and as the Chairman of the Trustees Board for over a decade.

In 2002, he received a special acknowledgement when the Roosevelt C. Sands Jr. Affordable Housing Complex was established in recognition of his decades of dedicated and outstanding service to the Key West Housing Authority Board, its residents, and the Key West community. In the year 2007, he became the first African American to deliver the Commencement Speech for the Key West High School Graduation Ceremonies during a year that commemorated the 100th Anniversary of the school.

Honoring Garrett Hughes

Garrett Daniel Hughes, beloved son, brother, grandson, cousin and friend, went to be with the Lord on Feb. 13, 2023, at the age of 21. Garrett brought laughter, joy and happiness to everyone around him. He had a smile that could light up a room and a heart as big as the ocean. His passion for life, living every day to its fullest, was evident to all who knew him. He will be remembered for his fierce loyalty to his family and friends.

He is survived by his parents, Lesley Touzalin and John and Tiffany Hughes, his brothers Zachary Morgan Hughes (Olivia), Carson Alexander Hughes, Luke Jaxon Hughes, Andrew Cain Freeman (Olivia) and Cade Joseph Freeman; grandparents Jack and Gwen Hughes, Norma and Steve Touzalin, and Bill and Mary Chase; uncles Christopher Hughes (Kay), Phillip Touzalin, Donnie Preston (Maria); aunts Renee’ (Erick) Sockol, and Neda (Michael) Jackson; cousins Wyatt Hughes, Cain Hughes, Kalli Mellili, Ashlee Touzalin, Alyssa Touzalin, Devyn Sockol, Blaine Preston, Jada Preston, Preston Jackson, Zoey Jackson, and Zander Jackson; girlfriend Micah Hayden and many loving relatives and friends.

Garrett was born Nov. 13, 2001, in Miami, Florida, but his family moved to Key West in 2002 and he spent his life growing up in a community he loved, playing sports and exploring the local waters. His youth was spent on ballfields where he played baseball, basketball, football and lacrosse. He developed a deep passion for the sea and spent as much time as he could fishing, diving or hanging out at the beach with family and friends. An energetic boy with a magnetic personality, he made deep friendships in his early days that would last throughout his lifetime.

As he entered Key West High School, he focused his attention on football and lacrosse and was a standout athlete on both teams. His tenacity and fierce competitive spirit drove him to work hard on and off the field. He also became part of the Key West Fire Academy and upon graduation of high school in 2020, he considered it a possible career. His love of the water won out and he spent his days serving as a first mate and reveling in the daily catches and his ability to “never work a day in his life”.

He loved his Key West community and was so proud to grow up as a Conch, with all of the traditions and close family ties that make this island special. Giving back was important to him and he volunteered as a coach for Key West High School and Horace O’Bryant School football as well as the lacrosse youth leagues.

Though his time on this Earth was short, he made an impact on all who met him and was a true friend to many. His family is grateful for the  outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.