Loss of a legend
Jimbo
The Island lost a legend Jan. 14 when James “Jimbo” Lease surfed his last wave.
Jimbo, as he was known, was born in Lakeland March 31, 1955, to Jim and Loretta and moved with his family from Merritt Island to Anna Maria Island in 1963. He was child No. 6 of the Lease family, which boasted 11 children — nine boys and two girls.
After their father died, Loretta kept her pack of kids together in their canalfront home in Holmes Beach and helped other families and kids through the Island Youth Center — now the Center of Anna Maria Island.
Jimbo embodied a true “island life,” spending his time on the beaches, surfing, fishing, playing sports and music. He was known and loved by many, often holding court in the 1970s while still in high school at the PB, also known as the Manatee Public Beach, with his bongo drums always at hand. He managed to make drum circles and sunset gatherings for young people on the island popular long before their time.
He was known by many on the island as a free spirit and generous person, often teaching younger kids to surf and fish. His larger-than-life personality will be missed.
He was a true lover of the environment, with respect for Mother Nature and all nature provided on Anna Maria Island. He often preached to anyone who would listen how the island and the surrounding area — Perico Island and Cortez — were going to be overrun by developers.
And he was known to often say that because of the developers it was soon to be, “Lights out, Anna Maria!”
There were times when he would cry out in a crowd with his arms raised, “I am the island!” and everyone would applaud. He was what his surfing, musician peers hoped they could be — one with the island.
A celebration of life and a paddleout is being planned — to be announced at a later date.
He is survived by his son, Tyson; siblings Kathy Lease Harris, Ken, Tom, Steve, Dan, Terry Lease Williams, Rick, Matt and Jeff; and eight nephews and nieces. — Kevin Cassidy
Cynthia Angelic Williams-Venable
Cynthia Angelic Williams-Venable, 51, of Bradenton, died Jan. 12.
She was born in Hinckley, Ohio, and was a longtime resident of Bradenton.
Her mother, Ruby Lake, ran the Anchorage Restaurant in Anna Maria and Ms. Williams-Venable spent a lot of time there with friends and family.
Her family said she will always be loved, never forgotten and forever missed.
There will be no services.
She is survived by her partner, Michele Nolet; mother Ruby Lake; sisters Laura Griffin and Nora Losalo; brother Darrell Venable and uncle, Frank Hill.