Del Martin Dies At 87

Del Martin is a famed Lesbian activist who, along with her partner, Phyllis Lyon, became synonymous with the struggle same sex couples endured over the issue of marriage in California. On June 16th of this year, Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon were one of the couples who were married on the first day same sex unions were again allowed legally in that state.

"Ever since I met Del 55 years ago, I could never imagine a day would come when she wouldn't be by my side," said Lyon in a statement.

"I also never imagined there would be a day that we would actually be able to get married," she added. "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."

Martin and Lyon were one of two dozen couples who filed lawsuits that eventually went in front of the Supreme Court and caused California's gay marriage ban to be overturned.

Del Martin was involved in lesbian activism from 1955 until the end.