The Enigmatic Demise of Key West's Flamboyant Caretaker: The Unsolved Murder of Frank Fontis

A Vibrant Figure in Key West's Tapestry

In the vibrant and eclectic community of Key West during the 1970s, few individuals stood out as prominently as Frank Fontis. Known for his flamboyant personality and diverse roles, Fontis was a landscape artist, the proprietor of the Coffee Mill and Florida Railroad Museum, and notably, the caretaker for the esteemed playwright Tennessee Williams. His dynamic presence and unique contributions made him a well-recognized figure in the local scene.

A Complex Relationship with Tennessee Williams

Fontis's association with Tennessee Williams extended beyond mere employment; he was responsible for maintaining Williams's property and had a hand in its aesthetic enhancements. Notably, Fontis constructed the distinctive fence that still adorns Williams's residence on Duncan Street, even intricately carving "Tom"—Williams's given name—into the gazebo's gingerbread detailing. Despite this close professional relationship, Williams harbored mixed feelings about Fontis, once describing him as possessing a "malign" spirit with "genuine demonic presence and evil powers." This characterization suggests a complex and perhaps tumultuous dynamic between the two men....Read More

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