Payson McDonnell “Bunky” Cushing, a hard-working Ralph Lauren sales associate who was a staple in Chicago social circles, passed away Oct. 13, shortly after a triple-bypass surgery. He was 65.
Cushing, a Michigan native, rarely spoke of his background, but had told friends that he was among the poor relations of a wealthy family. He worked as an associate at the Ralph Lauren flagship store on Michigan Avenue.
But he also moved in the highest social circles and was a “walker” for socialites who were unaccompanied at social functions. He rode the bus to work and saved his earnings to host events such as his Valentine’s Tea, which was held annually at the Peninsula Hotel.
Socialite Hazel Barr told Chicago Sun-Times that the Valentine’s Tea was “the social event of the season. It was a gift of love to the women he loved.”
Cushing also organized several Handbags and Halos event for Howard Brown Health Center (HBHC).
“Bunky was a great friend and supporter of Howard Brown Health Center,” said Bill Joure, HBHC’s senior director of Retail and Operations. “The Handbags and Halos events he organized to benefit Howard Brown were always a treat—he would invite his best customers and friends, and any handbags that didn’t sell at the event, we would display and sell at our Brown Elephant stores. Bunky made those of us from Howard Brown attending the event feel like his special guests, and that made it an even bigger treat. People always looked forward to seeing what would be available that year—and we’re so thankful for his generosity over the years. He is missed.”