Honoring Dexter Butler

IN LOVING MEMORY OF DEXTER LANG BUTLER, BORN ON FEBRUARY 12TH, 1986, AND PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 2ND, 2024, IN KEY WEST, FLORIDA.

DEXTER WAS THE BELOVED HUSBAND OF MARIA L. CASTILLO, DEVOTED FATHER OF VIVIANA JADE BUTLER, CHERISHED SON OF ANITA AND WILLIAM "BILL'' BUTLER, LOVING BROTHER OF DEVIN MILES BUTLER, ADORED BROTHER-IN-LAW OF VALERIE BUTLER, AND TREASURED UNCLE OF NORMAN BRUIEN, BRODY BUTLER, AND PRECIOUS NEPHEW OF DECHANTAL AND BILL WILLIAMS, ANNETTE MOBLEY, VENDA STORR AND DONALD BATY, BETTY CAREY, VICTORIA BUTLER, WANDA MOBLEY, AND AGNES BUTLER.

DEXTER ALSO LEAVES BEHIND A CHERISHED EXTENDED FAMILY, DEEPLY CLOSE TO HIS HEART.

DEXTER LANG BUTLER LIVED A LIFE MARKED BY REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENTS AND PROFOUND CONNECTIONS. FROM HIS DAYS AS A STANDOUT ATHLETE TO HIS ROLES AS A TEACHER AND COACH. DEXTER LEFT AN INDELIBLE MARK ON THE HEARTS OF MANY. HIS JOURNEY INCLUDED MILESTONES SUCH AS FATHERHOOD, COACHING HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL, AND PURSUING HIS PASSION FOR SPORTS. DEXTER'S COMMITMENT TO MENTORING THE YOUTH AND HIS TIRELESS DEDICATION TO COMMUNITY SERVICE, INCLUDING FOUNDING THE KEY WEST SUNSETS BASKETBALL PROGRAM, WILL BE REMEMBERED AS CORNERSTONES OF HIS LEGACY.

DEXTER'S CALM DEMEANOR, IUNDNESS, AND UNWAVERING HONESTY ENDEARED HIM TO ALL WHO KNEW HIM. HE POSSESSED A RARE COMBINATION OF GRACE, WARMTH, AND AN INNATE ABILITY TO CONNECT WITH OTHERS. HIS VALUES OF FAITH, FRIENDSHIP, AND GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY REFLECTED HIS DEEPLY HELD BELIEFS AND SERVED AS GUIDING PRINCIPLES THROUGHOUT HIS LIFE.

DEXTER'S IMPACT ON THE LIVES OF HIS FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND COMMUNITY WAS IMMEASURABLE. HE WAS A SOURCE OF STRENGTH AND SUPPORT, ALWAYS READY TO LEND A LISTENING EAR OR OFFER THOUGHTFUL ADVICE. FROM CHERISHED MEMORIES OF HIICTNG ADVENTURES TO JOYFUL MOMENTS WELCOMING HIS DAUGHTER INTO THE WORLD, DEXTER'S PRESENCE BROUGHT LIGHT AND LAUGHTER TO THOSE AROUND HIM.

DEXTER LANG BUTLER LEAVES BEHIND A LASTING LEGACY OF COMPASSION, DEDICATION, AND UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO OTHERS. HIS CONTRIBUTIONS TO HIS COMMUNITY AND SOCIETY AT LARGE SERVE AS A TESTAMENT TO HIS BOUNDLESS GENEROSITY AND GENUINE CONCERN FOR THE WELL-BEING OF OTHERS. DEXTER'S MEMORY WILL LIVE ON THROUGH THE COUNTLESS LIVES HE TOUCHED AND THE ENDURING IMPACT OF HIS KINDNESS AND COMPASSION.

IN THE WAKE OF·DEXTER'S PASSING, LET US FIND COMFORT IN THE CHERISHED MEMORIES WE SHARED AND TAKE CONSOLATION IN THE PROFOUND LEGACY HE LEAVES BEHIND. MAY HIS SPIRIT CONTINUE TO INSPIRE US ALL TO LIVE WITH KINDNESS, GRACE, AND UNWAVERING DEDICATION TO OTHERS. DEXTER LANG BUTLER WILL BE DEEPLY MISSED AND FONDLY REMEMBERED BY ALL WHO HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF KNOWING HIM.

Honoring Cynthia Bunch

God blessed the earth with Cynthia Lee Bunch on September 27, 1952, in Key West, Florida. She was born to her late amazing parents, Leo Cruz and Mary Estelle Cruz.

Cynthia attended Key West High School and loved the island with all of her heart and soul. She spread her love and warmth to her family and friends, and to all that crossed her path. Cindy's baking was legendary, and by the ones who tasted her delicious treats she was loved and adored even more so.

Cynthia retired in 2019 from the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority with over 25 years of service. After retiring Cindy enjoyed game nights with friends, weekly bocce, relaxing doing puzzles, and listening to music at the square.

She leaves to cherish her memories, her son, her daughter, her granddaughter, sisters, 'Amiga', and a multitude of other close family and friends.

Heaven is definitely a better place with Cynthia and Grammy side by side once again shinning their amazing light just like the good old days.

Honoring Terian Reid

Today we honor the life of our now dearly departed daughter, sister, aunt, niece, wife and dear friend to many. Mrs.Terian Walcott-Reid affectionately and fondly known as "Leisha, Bright Eyes" by her family and childhood friends, gained her wings on Thursday July 12th, 2024, and has gone home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

She was truly the friendliest, beautiful, amazing, pleasant, charming, compassionate and a wonderful woman of God, who was the kindest, and most loving person in the world to her children, her husband, her entire immediate and extended family, as well as her church family at Joe Hut Baptist and later, Next Generation Christian Church (NGCC).

At a tender age, she was introduced to Joe Hut Bethesda Baptist Church, by her mother Dorret (otherwise known as Ms. Maria), where a long line of her family were members for decades. Terian grew up in the church and was an active member who participated in various ministries. She was a Sunday School Teacher, Youth Fellowship Leader, Choir member and Vocation Bible School Instructor. Other responsibilities include the reading of the Sunday School Report, Youth Secretary, and being a member of the Community Outreach program.

Terian dedicated her life to her family and making sure they were all supported in whatever way she could. Our sister, Terian was born on May 18, 1980, at the Ulster Spring Hospital in Trelawny Jamaica. She grew up in the vicinity of Joe Hut, where she spent most of her childhood and early adult life.

Honoring Winnie Marie Bochenick

Winnie “Bootie” Bochenick , 85, died peacefully surrounded by her family in Ocala, Florida on October 20, 2024.
She was preceded in death by her husband Felix Jr, parents Alfred and Mary Knowles, her brother, Alfred Knowles, Jr., sister Dollie Schell, and her nephew Paulie Knowles.
She is survived by her son Felix Bochenick lll; daughter, Dawn (Adam) Baker; and a beloved granddaughter whom she loved and raised as her own Thomesha “Mesha” Milian.
Grandchildren Michael (Shannon)Tymb; Heather (Tim)Stevens; Brandy (Rohan)Shah; and Lauryn Bochenick.
Great Grandchildren, Evan, Cordell, Isaiah, Brenna (Jesse), Timothy, Tamia, Mason, and Scarlett.
Her sister-in-law Barbara Knowles and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and close family friends whom she loved so much.

Honoring Shelley Castillo

Shelley Mia Castillo was born on March 15, 1965, to Raymond and Cleora Lightbourne, III in Key West, Florida. She was the second child born to this union and was loved and adored by both of her parents. Her father would often sing Stevie Wonder’s “My Cherie Amour” to her in her crib but he would improvise and say, “My Shelley Amour”. Shelley was a very energetic and joyful child. She enjoyed hanging out with her numerous cousins and going to school. She enjoyed hanging out on the weekends, going to Josepha’s, playing jack stones, jump board and roller skating with her cousins. Growing up she was always fiercely protective of others. She was a natural born fighter and would defend her siblings and cousins often. Shelley was a natural nurturer and often took care of her siblings as a second mother. She had an infectious laugh that would fill you with joy each time you heard it. Her distinctive “HA-HIEE” was shared at a many family functions.

Shelley was a known fashionista and at one time considered pursuing a career in modeling. She participated in numerous fashion shows and pageants within the Key West Community. She was also well known for her beautiful singing voice often displaying her talent in pageants and singing in the choir at church. She enjoyed listening to Whitney Houston, Mahalia Jackson, Deneice Williams and Natalie Cole. She was a graduate of Key West high school the class of 1984. After graduating she went to live with her uncle Cecil in Sacramento, CA to begin the next phase of her life, until love intervened. Shelley and Aaron’s love story began in 1981 when she asked him to take her on his motorcycle to break up with her then boyfriend at the time. He picked her up in front of The Pines Inn and when he dropped her off home he told his cousin Panchi, “Cheese Get the number!”. From that day forward she was his bunny and the rest is history! Their love story can be compared to the star-crossed lovers that Shakespeare wrote about. Their love was truly written in the stars and meant to be. Shelley and Aaron welcomed their first child Mia Antonia Castillo on August 7, 1986, and were married in their family home on February 14, 1987. After their marriage they welcomed two more additions to their beautiful family Michaela Almoveta Castillo and Aaron Jose Castillo Jr. Shelley was such a loving and caring mother, she doted on her daughters and spoiled her son. She was the epitome of what it meant to be the matriarch of her family. Both her and Aaron instilled in their children the importance of education, faith, service, and determination.

Shelley was employed by Sears and Roebuck from 1986 until 1995 when she decided to help her husband fulltime with the family business Key West Mortuary. Having previously been employed by Francisco Johnson at Key West Undertaking Company as an apprentice to her aunt Doris who was the cosmotologist at the time. Shelley was a natural at the funeral business; the perfect role for her was the Director of Family Services at Key West Mortuary. She enjoyed not just assisting families with making pre-arrangements for funerals and serving as a lady attendant on services where she would get to use her excellent skills in oration. She also was excellent at preparing loved ones for their final services often on hair and cosmetics. It was at this time that Shelley was in the prime of her life. Her children were young and growing, her and her husband were growing their family business and enjoying life.

Suddenly in the year 1999, she felt a lump in her breast and went to get it checked and found out that she had stage four breast cancer and was given six months to live. Both her and Aaron listened to advice from doctors but trusted in the lord.  They had three young children and the rest of their lives ahead of them. They traveled to the Mercy Cancer center in Baltimore, MD where Shelley had a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery on both of her breasts. Her doctors were so amazed at her fighting spirit and the fact that although she had bad news she was still determined to live for her family. Shelley trusted in God and battled the disease and won! She was surrounded by God’s grace and mercy along with her supportive husband, family and this awesome community. She was so grateful for the outpouring of love and support she received from so many during that time in her life. So many different people came to not only help with her care but the care of her children and household and for that she was eternally grateful, and she was cancer free until the day she died and never forgot how far the lord had brought her.

After surviving breast cancer, Shelley encountered additional health issues, but her determination was always steadfast. She always pushed through and would put on her best and make the best of it. She would often say “Just because I am sick, that doesn’t mean I have to look sick”. Shelley loved the lord and was a member of Bethel AME Church from childhood until 2018. Both she and Aaron told their children who God was, taught them how to pray and encouraged their children to participate and attend both Bethel AME and the Basilica churches during their childhood and allowed them to make the decision on which faith they would choose.

She enjoyed singing in the choir and assisting with the churches Y.P.D program. In February of 2018 she decided to join the Basilica of Saint Mary’s Star of the Sea Church with her husband and children. Shelley enjoyed attending vigil mass with her family on Saturday evenings. As Shelley watched her children grow into adulthood, she longed to be a grandmother. She watched her peers slowly become grandmothers and she would often say “When is it going to be my turn” so she waited patiently and during this time found herself often loving and doting on many other children and named them her honorary grandchildren. On November 22, 2019 Melody Raven Castillo-Leconte was born. Melody has the same energetic and colorful personality that her grandmother had. She was the apple of Shelley’s eye, and they were a dynamic duo from birth. Melody loved both her Nannie and her Papa very much and enjoyed spending her time with them. The three of them were a trio and would often be seen around town shopping, going to church, and enjoying the KWHS Conchs games. Family meant the world to Shelley, and she meant the world to her family.

Shelley was a lady of elegance and style, she got her hair and nails done every two weeks, she wore the finest fashions and enjoyed entertaining in her beautiful home. Shelley’s home was the centerpiece of her family, many often could find themselves at her home enjoying a cold drink, a rest, a bite to eat, or just and encouraging word. She enjoyed shopping and baking and loved spoiling any little children that would enter her home with treats. 

In July of 1998 Shelley joined The Order of the Eastern Stars under the leadership of Myrna E. Sawyer. Her dedication and love for the order prevailed. Later through the years she became the Worthy Matron of Myrna E. Sawyer Key of the Gulf Chapter No. 5 OES and enjoyed serving her community through this organization. The last few months of her life Shelley was on the campaign trail assisting her husband with running his campaign for the City of Key West District Six commission seat. She lived to see his victory on November 5th, 2024, and was right by his side celebrating with her family, friends and community.

Honoring Michael McDowell

Michael Lee McDowell lost his battle with cancer on December 25th, 2019, after a courageous battle. He was 56 years old.

Mike was born and raised in Shelbyville, Indiana. He followed his dream of enjoying the Florida sunshine year around and made Key West his home in October 2018. Though not born there, Mike always said he got to Key West as soon as he could.

Mike will be remembered for his unwavering faith in God, his infectious smile and laugh, his kind and humble spirit, and his tireless work ethic. He had a passion for motor vehicles, camping, fishing, ocean adventures, cruising in his golf cart, and time at the shooting range.

Mike’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and devotion to family and friends, and he is deeply missed by all who knew him.

Honoring Vickie Handy

Born on Christmas Eve 1960 you started bringing joy to the world at that moment. Smart, funny with a love of music, art and of course the beach. Many good times were had at Jones Beach (although none of us could swim very well). Your students benefited from your knowledge of science, your wit and of course your imitations of Buck the wonder dog. You are missed every day.

Honoring Flora Castillo

Flora Yvonne Knowles Castillo affectionately known as "Nana Flora" was born on August 7, 1931, to the late Edwin and Verlene Knowles in Key West, Florida. Flora attended Monroe County Public schools and graduated from Frederick Douglass High School in 1948. Flora was reared in a Christian home and at early age accepted Jesus Christ as her personal savior. She was a faithful and devoted member of Trinity Presbyterian Church throughout her lifetime and enjoyed attending church until her health began to decline. She sang in the church choir and also served on the church Usher Board.

Flora was employed as a shampoo girl at Donald's hair salon, an assistant baker at Busy Bee Bakery, an admissions clerk at the Key West Lighthouse, and a poll worker for the Monroe County Supervisor of Elections Office.

On May 20, 1953, Flora was united in holy matrimony to Anthony Castillo Sr. This union was blessed with four sons Anthony Ambrose II, Michael Christopher, Edward Joaquin and Aaron Jose. Of paramount importance was Flora's duty as a mother to her four sons. She was an excellent homemaker and was world famous for her fabulous baked goods, lilly dillies, fried chicken and pork chops.

"Nana Flora", as the neighborhood children would call her, had one of the best mango trees in Key West. She was not stingy with her mangoes and enjoyed allowing the children to come in her yard and fill their buckets during the summers. Many often found themselves at her kitchen table enjoying a tasty banana fritter or a cold drink of fresh limeade made with the key limes from the tree in her yard. Flora also had a green thumb, she enjoyed working in her garden and caring for her many plants that she used in her home remedies, much like her mother and sisters before her.

Anthony Sr. and Flora were socialites, and they belonged to numerous social clubs and civil organizations in Key West. There was seldom a weekend that they did not have a function to attend. They enjoyed dressing up and going out as a couple all over town to numerous parties, balls, wakes and functions.

Flora was a member of the Bahama Village Political Action Committee, Myrna E. Sawyer Key of the Gulf #5 Order of the Eastern Star where she served as Ruth and the Silverettes Club. Flora was the last "Boss of Virginia Street" all of her neighbors loved and enjoyed watching her sit on her porch during the day enjoying a cool drink and waving to tourists and passerby's. Flora's life has been a beacon of strength for her family for decades.

Honoring Gina Smith

Our beloved sister, wife, mother, and grandmother Gina Soldano Smith went to be with the Lord on January 10th, 2025.  She fought a hard battle with cancer.  She's predeceased by her parents Joseph and Elsa Soldano.  Gina leaves behind her husband Gerald, her daughters Teresa (Xavi) Perez, Jackie (Darry) Castro, her son Darren, and brother-in-law Jack (Ann) Smith.  Also, her five sisters - Joelsa (Larry) Schober, Andrea Shafer, Yvonne Soldano, Marisa (David) Gootee, and Monica (Donald) Fletchall.  Gina graduated from Key West High School in 1973 and was a member of the KWHS band playing the clarinet all four years.  After graduation, she attended Florida State University earning her degree in Elementary Education.  She began her teaching career in Fort Lauderdale at North Fork Elementary teaching kindergarten.  She missed her hometown and returned to Key West and taught at Reynolds School, Glynn Archer Elementary, Horace O'Bryant Elementary and Key West High School.  Gina loved her job and all of her students and treated them as her own.  A career she held for 47 years.  Gina leaves behind her beloved grandchildren Isabella, Xavier and Veda, Nieces and nephews - Jodi Presley, Audra Gootee, Grace Thrift, Olivia Torres, David Gootee, Joseph Schober, Chelsea Pita and Cameron Fletchall. 

Honoring Maximina Valdez Knighten

On a beautiful day on December 23, 1934, a baby girl was born to the late Alejandro Valdez and Edna Sawyer Howard. They named her Maximina. She was the second to the last of nine children born of this union.

Maximina spent her childhood and young adulthood in Key West graduating from Frederick Douglass High School. She met Gene Knighten during his military tenure in Key West. They fell in love and married; their union begat two sons, Yul and Ricci. Through his military service they traveled the U.S. and upon his passing, Maximina returned to Key West with her two children to be with sisters and mother. Maximina worked many years for Key West Handprint and the Key West Convalescent Center in the laundry department. When she retired, she and her sister Consuelo cared for their mother full time together.

Maxi, as she affectionately was called, was a faithful member of Cornish Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church where she served on the Women's Home and Overseas Missionary Society as a missionary. Beyond her church service Maxie thoroughly enjoyed her soap operas, game shows, and just relaxing on the porch with her sister and neighbors.