Pioneering Transgender and Labor Activist Denise D’Anne
Former Harvey Milk Club Co-President and early transgender advocate Denise D’Anne passed on September 2 at her Guerrero Street Home. She was 86.
Born in New York City, D’Anne transitioned in 1968 and moved to San Francisco, where she became a committed labor activist and proponent for social justice. Her numerous achievements include helping to establish in the 1970s both San Francisco’s Commission on the Status of Women and a credit union for women. As President of the San Francisco Community Recyclers, she hosted a radio program concerning environmental justice and helped to draft the 1997 Sustainability Plan for the City and County of San Francisco.
The San Francisco Board of Supervisors adjourned their meeting on September 15 in her memory.
Beloved Castro Community Member Thomas Matthew Virgo
A native of Kalamazoo, Michigan, Thomas Matthew Virgo passed in his chosen home city of San Francisco on August 16 at 60 years of age. Throughout his life, charismatic Virgo worked in the hospitality industry and was a favorite at Cinch Saloon and karaoke bars, where his fondness for music and singing delighted others. His kindness, personal style, and sweet smile will long be remembered. Close friends Ed Nieto and Steve Bruce were by his side to the very end.
Those who wish may make donations in his memory to amfAR ( https://www.amfar.org/ ) and the World Wildlife Fund
( https://www.worldwildlife.org ).
Prolific Drag Artist Peggy L’Eggs (Matthew Simmons)
Drag artist Matthew Simmons, known to his many admirers as Peggy L’Eggs, died peacefully and unexpectedly at his Oakland home at age 60 on September 8. As fellow entertainer Leanne Borghesi wrote: “Such a kind, wonderful performer and human to all those whom he worked with and knew. A loving, funny, and artistic soul.” Simmons was part of many shows and productions over the years throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.
Fellow drag legends Peaches Christ and Heklina are among the hosts of An Online Memorial for Peggy L’Eggs/Matthew Simmons, which will take place this Saturday, September 26, from 5 pm–7 pm. For more information:
https://www.facebook.com/events/866727310524776
Published on September 24, 2020
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