Early Monday 6-4-12 morning a huge party started in Heaven!!! The legendary Mary Ann Bonsey (The Queen) passed away. Her bigger than life “Auntie Mame” positive personality inspired many in our community. Mary Ann LOVED; Cigarettes, Stoli Vodka, Southern cooking, her friends (especially the Gay ones) & her custom signature mega 100’+ built yacht, The Miz Scarlett. It was not uncommon to meet professional ball players, sports club owners, national political leaders and recognized national newscasters in her condo or aboard Miz Scarlett. To say she will be missed a is a huge understatement. Left behind will be many wonderful memories and unforgettable stories. She was a professional ballroom dancer. Her sleek jeweled performance dance dresses are pure designer silk fashion treasures. She had them showcased in glass throughout the condo! We will remember the stories she told us about living next door to former President Jimmy Carter and when she met the love of her life, second husband Frank. When Mary Ann & Frank decided to move to Florida. Here is just one of the many stories.
Frank went ahead to find a new home. Frank was a famous hospital / building architect. He purchased 4 units on the top floor of the Treasure Island Tennis & Yacht Club. Then Frank re designed the units into one beautiful penthouse. When he first showed the finished new home to Mary Ann he asked, “What do you think.” Mary Ann said, “Very nice but I will miss my basement we left behind in Georgia.”
A couple of months went by when the elevator stopped on the floor below. Mary Ann asked, “What’s this?” As Frank opened the door he said, “It’s your basement!” There was a large rec room complete with pool table, pinball machines, sports posters, a complete guest condo & tons of basement storage. We can still hear Mary Ann with her Georgia accent say to Judy, “Judy dear would you mind running down to the basement & get me…” then everybody would laugh. We all will miss Mary Ann very much.