Depression and grief: a personal experience and tribute

Stella Lopez-Armijo and Ina Mae Murri in their home (July 2009)

I have previously discussed depression and grief in connection with the tragic death of Ethan Stacy that shook and left the nation in utter sadness.

I have recently had an experience with grief and depression.  A dear relative of mine, Ina Mae Murri, and her partner, Stella Lopez-Armijo, died suddenly on Saturday morning as a result of a fatal car crash.

Just across the Utah-Idaho state line, where my family originated, is where this tragic event took place.  Ina Mae and Stella were visiting from California to attend an annual family reunion.  Driving back to the hotel, Ina Mae accelerated for an unknown reason and sped at sixty-five to seventy miles per hour through two intersections before colliding with a truck.  Ina Mae died instantly and Stella died on the way to Ogden Regional Hospital.

Ina Mae, my grandmother's sister, and her partner Stella were influential in the LGBT community in California where they lived. Both came from strong religious backgrounds, Ina Mae a Mormon and Stella a Roman Catholic and both had difficult journeys because they were true to themselves and true to each other.  Ina Mae and Stella both advocated for the LGBT community and Ina Mae was a member of Affirmation, an organization for gay and lesbian Mormons, where she also held high-ranking positions.  Ina Mae and Stella were pioneers for their cause, assisting and always caring for others.  Both of these amazing women forged the way for many in the LGBT community and had a powerful and positive influence on all they met.

Ina Mae and Stella were the light and life of every family gathering. They were strong and strong-willed and were never beaten down.  They were happy, beautiful and wonderful women whose legacy will continue.

At a Washington DC convention (2000)

With my greatest admiration and love, I pay tribute to two strong, amazing women who never backed down.  I offer my deepest condolences to the families, friends and all who had the privilege to meet and know Ina Mae and Stella.  I am honored and blessed to have been related to Ina Mae and to have known both of them.

May their legacy continue and never be forgotten.