The HIV/AIDS Community mourns the passing of Chicago LGBT activist Renae Ogletree

At the age of 59, Renae Ogletree passed away due to a long struggle with lung cancer on April 23. A nationally recognized LGBT leader  for many, many years, Renae was an inspiring, smart, strategic, and passionate advocate. She was also an unwavering ally in the fight against HIV/AIDS from the beginning. Her fierce determination, her savvy, and her wonderful sense of humor will be deeply missed by everyone in the AIDS community, the LGBT community, and in the community at large - all arenas in which she contributed so much. We miss her deeply.

A public memorial service will be held Saturday, May 1, 11 a.m. at the Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark, followed by a reception at the same location.

Read more about Renae's life and many accomplishments, including recollections from a number of friends, in this Windy City Times article.