Del Martin, a longtime advocate and activist for the LGBT community whose lawsuit for the right to marry her partner of 55 years led to this year's historic California state Supreme Court ruling allowing same-sex marriage, died on Wednesday in San Francisco. She was 87.
Her lifelong partner, spouse and fellow activist Phyllis Lyon was by Martin's side as she passed away.
Martin and Lyon were married in San Francisco in June, after 55 years together.
San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom ordered flags at San Francisco City Hall to be flown halfmast yesterday.
"For over half a century, Del Martin, along with her loving spouse, Phyllis Lyon, served as an activist for women's rights and the LGBT community," Newsom said.
"The marriage of Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon on 16 June, 2008, marked an historic milestone on our country's road to true freedom and equality. Del laid the groundwork for all those who want a life of dignity, and we are forever in her debt. The greatest way we can honor the life work of Del Martin, is to continue to fight and never give up, until we have achieved equality for all.
"Our deepest sympathies go out to Del's family, her spouse, Phyllis, her daughter, Kendra, and all those who mourn the loss of this great and pioneering woman."
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