The Savannah performer Lady Chablis, who received national attention as a character in the true-crime title "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," has died. Club One in Savannah announced the sad news in a statement today saying Chablis " who stole hearts - and the spotlight .. passed this morning surrounded by friends and family."
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The AJC's Bo Emerson saw Lady Chablis transform into character
Born Benjamin Knox in 1957 in rural Quincy, Fla., Chablis, sometimes known by adoring fans as simply "the Doll," was an activist as well as an entertainer.
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"She has long been a giver to the community," Club One's statement said. "Throughout the 2000’s, she worked closely on various campaigns for the American Diabetes Association, donating thousands of dollars raised by her performances to the cause.
She was the headlining entertainer for Savannah Pride’s inaugural celebration, and hosted their Miss Gay Pride Pageant. She would go on to perform, donate and contribute to many LGBT charities throughout her career."
"Today is the day I will be filming an episode for Bravo, with The Atlanta Housewives!!!" Lady Chablis posted on Facebook at the time. "I am so excited!! Need I say so are they!! I am truly grateful for this as I continue my purpose to be all that I am!! Wish me luck and hope that all will go well. Stay tuned."
Chablis had apparently been ailing recently, the club's statement indicated.
"With her declining health, she regretted that her body wouldn’t allow her to give more," it said. "Chablis is survived by her sister, Cynthia. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, who request privacy during this time of grief."
