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[Eleftheria]

It is with great sadness that I report the death of Del Martin (87), a pioneering lesbian rights activist and partner of 55 years to fellow activist Phyllis Lyon. Her wife was at her side when she died. Del and Phyllis were the first same-sex couple married in California both in 2004 and in 2008, when same-sex marriages became legal.
Phyllis Lyon issued this statement: “Ever since I met Del 55 years ago, I could never imagine a day would come when she wouldn’t be by my side. I am so lucky to have known her, loved her, and been her partner in all things,” Lyon said. “I also never imagined there would be a day that we would actually be able to get married. I am devastated, but I take some solace in knowing we were able to enjoy the ultimate rite of love and commitment before she passed.”