Lucille passed last week, at 103, witty as ever! She said “whatever works is where you hang your hats!”
Lucille Haley (nee Hartfuer) Bonito Schechter lived in New York City and worked in the fashion industry for four decades, ‘30s-’70s. Lucille was with Christian Dior when his first collection came to America. She then became Fashion Director of I. Miller; Harper’s Bazaar, as shoe editor, then marketing editor. Lucille presented prominent Haute Couture Fashion Shows and was a member of Women’s Wear Daily.
Lucille had a mastery at entertaining in creative ways. She would give theme parties for events from various cultures and cuisine. In the 80’s-90’s Lucille started an International cooking and touring school, “The Wandering Spoon.” She studied and travelled in Europe and wrote “The International Menu Cookbook,” which predated Lean Cuisine.
Being social, Lucille and her husband Bill Schechter, who had a prominent PR firm in NYC, entertained many high profile figures in fashion, politics and international business. They had a second home in Woodstock, NY, where they would host events and were avid tennis players. Lucille did publicity for the Woodstock Playhouse, volunteered at WAAM and was on the Woodstock Town Board for 2 terms. She received The Centanarian Award for her contributions to the Town of Woodstock.
Lucille is survived by her daughter, Cristina Morgan; son, Alan “Chip” and Maryann Bonito; sister, Bonnie Roosa. Lucille’s local relatives include the Hastie Family.
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