Seattle Gay News Obituary Feed

The final bow: Celebrating the radiant life and legacy of Bret Hanna-Shuford

The lights of Broadway shine a little differently now. The theater community — a world built on storytelling, vulnerability, and the magic of connection — has lost one of its most vibrant storytellers. Bret Hanna-Shuford, a talent whose warmth radiated far beyond the footlights, has taken his final bow at the age of 46. While his departure leaves a profound silence where his laughter once rang, his life remains a resounding anthem of authenticity, love, and artistic resilience. To know Bret’s work was to wi

Obituary: Thomas Charles Rantz (1952–2025)

Thomas Charles (“Cha-Cha”) Rantz was born March 13, 1952, and passed away at his home in Seattle on August 21, 2025, due to a tragic accident. He was 73 years old. Born in Newport News, Virginia, to Richard Charles (colonel, US Army, Oct. 21, 1921–Feb. 4, 2023) and Erma Deanne Boyer Rantz, Tom spent his childhood with his military family, living in Virginia, Alaska, France, Germany, Rhode Island, and Brussels, Belgium.

In loving memory of Roxy Doll (November 16, 1967–June 24, 2025)

It is with profound sorrow that we share the passing of Roxy Doll, a beloved drag luminary and the heart of Neighbours Nightclub. She fell ill on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, and lay down to rest. She was later found unresponsive.

Robert Kent Storm, 1963–2025

Robert Kent Storm (aka Robert Hajime Ohashi, Jr.) was born on October 25, 1963. He passed away on March 23, 2025, at Swedish Hospital in Edmonds after a long battle with Parkinson’s and Lewy body dementia.

Remembering Washington State Mr. Leather John "Daddy J" Limitone

For those who knew him, John F. Limitone, known among his chosen family as Daddy J, provided a space where we could exist unencumbered by the stresses and expectations of everyday life.

Forever in our hearts: Michael Dumoulin

Michael Dumoulin passed away in his sleep during the early morning hours of January 31. Michael was a quiet and kind-hearted person who touched the lives of all who were around him.

Remembering Josh Cohen

My friend Josh Cohen died unexpectedly of a heart attack last Friday while attending a conference. I am shocked and saddened.

Longtime co-owner of The Wildrose Bar, Shelley Brothers, passes away at 67

Seattle Gay News and the city's LGBTQ+ community mourn the loss of Shelley Brothers, co-owner of the Wildrose Bar, and she will be remembered as an LGBTQ+ legend.

Remembering our beloved Stewart O Kallappa Jr

Stewart O Kallappa Jr Passed away on Nov. 17, 2024, in Yakima due to complications of pneumonia. Stewart was born in March of 1957 and lived in Neah Bay, Port Angeles, Bothell and Central Seattle.

Remembering Rainbow City Band co-founder Jo-Ann Christen

A tribute to the Seattle educator and musician who passed away at the age of 82.

In Memoriam – Jim Moeller (1955–2023): A life dedicated to service

Remembering one of the first openly Gay men to serve on a city council and as a state representative in Washington.

Remembering Peter W. Rumm

Remembering the local Seattle resident.

Remembering Patrick Haggerty

Patrick Haggerty was a touring musician, public speaker, and political activist until the very end – a real diehard.

Elegy for a beloved swimmer: Rick Peterson (1951–2022)

A tribute to Rick Peterson.

Remembering Robert Masters

The SGN celebrates the life of Robert Masters.

Nick Garrison, 1974–2022: A remembrance by a few of his friends & collaborators

Celebrating the life of the beloved local theatre artist Nick Garrison.

Remembering Sheldon Jacobs

Celebration the life of a member of our local community Sheldon Jacobs.

Remembering Lester Gruner

The SGN, friends, and loved ones celebrate the life of Lester Gruner.

A kiss goodbye: A tribute to Ken Campbell

A tribute to Ken Campbell, by his friend Boy Mike.

Remembering Ken Campbell

A farewell to Ken Campbell from his family and friends.