Anita Bryant, singer and gay rights opponent, dies at 84

Anita Bryant, a former Miss Oklahoma and singer known for her opposition to gay rights, died on December 16 at age 84. Her family announced her death, but did not provide a cause. Bryant gained fame in the 1970s for leading campaigns against gay rights, notably opposing a Miami-Dade County ordinance that protected sexual orientation. This activism led to significant backlash, including boycotts and public protests. In her later years, Bryant lived in Oklahoma and led a ministry. She is survived by four children, two stepdaughters, and seven grandchildren.