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Died Bettie Naylor.

One of the Texas’s most passionate pioneers of LGBT equality, Bettie Naylor died peacefully in her home April 19, 2012. She was 84. A major influencer of feminist and LGBT politics in the 1970s and ‘80s and beyond, Naylor was a founding board member of the Human Rights Campaign as well as the Texas and National Women’s Political Caucus groups, Austin’s OutYouth, the Bar Owners Association of Texas (BOAT), and frequently lobbied in the Texas State Legislature, stumping for LGBT equality. Naylor is survived by her three children and partner of 30 years, Libby Sykora. Per Naylor’s wishes, a memorial is scheduled May 5, 3 p.m., at Austin’s First United Methodist Church, 1201 Lavaca Street, immediately followed by a celebration of life at the Family Life Center, located one block from the church. Memorial donations may be made to Family Eldercare, 1701 Rutherford Lane, Austin, Texas 78754, in care of The Bettie Naylor Fund. The fund supports LGBT seniors.

Died Betsy Worden. Famed lesbian nightclub owner Betsy Worden died in her home in Livingston, Texas, in April, following a long history of heart disease. She was 69. Before retiring to that area in 1998, Worden, a Texas native, owned Houston’s sprawling nightclub complex, Plaza 9200, throughout the 1990s. Anchored by The Ranch and several other theme bars, it was considered at that time to be the largest lesbian entertainment complex in the world. A long-time supporter of Texas Gay Rodeo Association, Independent Billiards League of Houston, animal rights groups, and local HIV and LGBT charities, Worden is survived by many friends who remember her generous, independent spirit and sharp business acumen. Those wishing to remember Worden are encouraged to make a contribution in her name to the individual’s preferred charities. A memorial service to honor Worden’s life is scheduled May 5, 11 a.m., in Livingston. Please refer to the “GHPBL Reunion” Facebook page for details.

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