BY IRIS B. HOLTON
Sentinel City Editor
Family members and friends gathered on Saturday, June 8th, to pay final tribute to Anthony Jerome Lee, a.k.a. South Beach Wanda. Lee was an entertainer who was shot and killed on May 28th while at the home of a friend.
Just before the family was to leave, his sister, Mrs. Barbara Thomas said she received a telephone call from a Tampa Police detective letting her know that they were going to make an arrest for her brother’s murder.
“I had prayed to the Lord would reveal his shooter before he was buried. By the time we had gotten to the cemetery, the man had already been arrested.
“I didn’t tell anyone because I didn’t want to jinx the arrest. I waited until after everything was over. Until we were at the repast and then I told my family about the arrest,” Mrs. Thomas said.
According to Tampa Police, on the night of May 28th, Lee was inside the residence at 3911 E. Genesee. His sister said he had a friend with small children who lived there and when he was in town, he would stop by and do whatever he could to help.
Police said three people in a dark-colored Dodge Magnum arrived at the residence. Two of the occupants remained in the car while the third person approached the residence.
As Lee answered the door, he was forced inside and a struggle ensued. During the struggle, Lee was shot and died at a local hospital.
DeAndre Tolliver
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s web page, Deandre B. Tolliver, 23, was arrested at 12 noon on Saturday, June 8th. He was charged with first degree murder and robbery with a firearm. Tolliver, who listed a Mulberry, Florida address, is being held without bond.
Police said the investigation is continuing as they attempt to identify additional suspects associated with the murder.
Mrs. Thomas said she didn’t know the man.
“I don’t know him, but he will get to know us. Every time there is a court date, some family member will be there. He doesn’t understand what he took from us.”
A Tampa native, Lee, 49, launched his career as a female impersonator after completing high school. He loved the television show “In Living Color,” and modeled his onstage persona after one of the characters known as “Wanda.” His profession resulted in him mimicking female performers such as Diana Ross. His sister said he idolized the late Whitney Houston.
As Lee perfected his craft, he became known throughout the nation as “South Beach Wanda.”
His funeral services were held at Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church, where he was a member.
