The Lower Haight lost a beloved resident last week, as Tanya "Lady T." Collier passed away.
Tanya, pictured above (right) with your editor (left), lived at 322 Haight Street. She was a frequent presence on the 400 block of Haight, often dropping by Underground SF for a glass of white wine, or Wing Wings for an impromptu dance party. She also served on the board of the Lower Haight Merchants and Neighbors Association, having been a resident of the Lower Haight for several decades. We asked a few locals for their reflections on Tanya. Steve Johnson, owner of Underground SF, had vivid memories to share.
Meanwhile, Lisa Shin of Wing Wings remembers Tanya's ability to make even complete strangers smile:
Tanya, pictured above (right) with your editor (left), lived at 322 Haight Street. She was a frequent presence on the 400 block of Haight, often dropping by Underground SF for a glass of white wine, or Wing Wings for an impromptu dance party. She also served on the board of the Lower Haight Merchants and Neighbors Association, having been a resident of the Lower Haight for several decades. We asked a few locals for their reflections on Tanya. Steve Johnson, owner of Underground SF, had vivid memories to share.
"I knew her well and am super saddened by the news when I received it a few days ago. She was such a loyal patron and genuine good spirit... We loved her dearly. Her signature drink was a white wine...only....and we always counted on her to stroll in and boost our spirits and liven up our crowd. She was known to pull you out of your seat and get you to the dance floor in no time....even for the most stubborn of partiers. Always polite and so well known amongst our patrons and staff... Our hearts go out to her family and and loved ones. We are dedicating our Monday night party to her as it is one of our oldest and her favorites. It's free entry and complimentary white wine while it lasts."Matt from Rooky Ricardo's Records and Glass Key Photo helped Lady T. make these custom buttons:
"The passing of Lady T is a big loss for the neighborhood...she was one of the colorful characters that gave Lower Haight its heart. She'd often pop into Wing Wings as she walked by when she heard tunes playing - either to give us a private boogie down session, or to entertain a roomful of customers. People were never sure what to make of her, but a reluctant smile would inevitably cross their face - you just couldn't be mad at her energy and enthusiasm. You did not forget if you met Lady T, even just once or twice."Tanya apparently didn't have much of a family presence in San Francisco, besides one sister from which she was reportedly estranged. Originally from DC, we're told she served in the Army during the first Gulf War. We are awaiting confirmation of the exact cause and time of her death. She was 55 years old. If you'd like to celebrate Tanya, consider stopping by Underground SF tonight from 10pm onward. Rest in peace, Lady T.
