Hidden Gems Archive

Remembering Thomas Gleason: A Naples Icon (1936-2025) Naples, Florida, lost one of its own on August 6, 2025, with the passing of Thomas Gleason. While an obituary notice may briefly summarize a life, it rarely captures the essence of a person, the ripples they create in a community, the stories that weave their legacy. This blog post aims to do just that – to paint a portrait of Thomas, not just through dates and facts, but through the lens of his Naples life, the connections he forged, and the impact he had on those around him. This isn’t just an obituary; it’s a celebration of a life we…

Remembering Bonnie Stephens: A Life Lived Fully in Naples and Beyond (1949-2025) Naples, Florida, is a city known for its breathtaking sunsets, pristine beaches, and vibrant community. It’s a place where people come to live out their dreams, build lasting connections, and enjoy the sweet life. And for those who knew her, Bonnie Stephens embodied the spirit of Naples, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of everyone she touched. With heavy hearts, we remember and celebrate the life of Bonnie Stephens, who passed away in 2025. While her obituary mentions ties to Danville and Rockingham Coun…

Exploring the Wonders of Rookery Bay: A Naples Nature Lover’s Paradise Hey there, fellow Naples nature enthusiasts! Have you ever felt that pull towards the wild, the untamed beauty that whispers promises of adventure and discovery? Well, right here in our backyard, nestled amongst the mangroves and coastal wonders, lies a hidden gem waiting to be explored: the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center. Trust me, it’s more than just a building; it’s a portal to the heart of Southwest Florida’s ecosystem, a place where education meets exhilaration. This isn’t your average museum. It’s an i…

Remembering Harrison Tempest: A Naples Treasure Lost (1937-2025) Naples, Florida, has always been a place that draws unique individuals. People come here for the sun, the beaches, the vibrant arts scene, and the distinct sense of community. It’s a place where stories intertwine like the roots of the mangroves along our coast. One such story, sadly now concluded, is that of Harrison Tempest, a beloved resident who passed away in 2025. While the New York Times marked his passing, we here in Naples want to share a more personal, more intimate remembrance of a man who truly embodied the spirit…

Remembering Harrison Tempest: A Naples Icon (1937-2025) Naples, Florida lost a true gem with the passing of Harrison Tempest in 2025. While the *Chicago Tribune* noted his passing, we here in Naples want to delve deeper into the life and legacy of a man who truly embodied the spirit of our community. He wasn’t just a name in an obituary; he was a neighbor, a friend, a mentor, and an inspiration to countless Neapolitans. This isn’t just an obituary; it’s a celebration of a life well-lived, right here in our sun-kissed paradise. ### From Windy City Roots to Sunshine State Dreams Harrison’s jo…

Remembering Theresa Lettiere: A Naples Life Well-Lived Naples, Florida, isn’t just a place of stunning sunsets and pristine beaches. It’s a community woven together by the lives and stories of its residents. Today, we remember one such resident, Theresa Lettiere, whose recent passing leaves a void in the hearts of many. While the brief obituary notice offers a glimpse of her existence, we want to delve deeper, celebrating her life and exploring the impact she undoubtedly had on our beloved Naples community. **(Note: This expanded obituary is a fictionalized account based on the limited infor…

Remembering Marybeth Hamlin: A Naples Treasure Lost (1952-2025) Naples, Florida, a city known for its sun-kissed beaches, vibrant arts scene, and warm, welcoming community, mourns the loss of one of its own: Marybeth Hamlin. While the official obituary may be a brief record of her passing, we, her Naples neighbors, want to paint a fuller picture of her life, her impact, and the void she leaves behind. This isn’t just a record; it’s a remembrance, a celebration of a life well-lived in our beloved city. A Life Blooming in Naples Sunshine Marybeth Hamlin’s story, though its final chapter has cl…

Beyond the Beaches: Unveiling Naples, Florida’s Star-Studded Secret Naples, Florida. Known for its pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, and upscale shopping, it’s a haven for those seeking a slice of paradise. But what you might not know is that tucked away amongst the swaying palm trees and luxurious waterfront estates lies a vibrant community with a surprising secret: it’s a magnet for celebrities. From legendary musicians to sharp-tongued television personalities, Naples and its neighboring island, Marco Island, have become a preferred sanctuary for a constellation of stars. So…