Anita Bryant, a former Miss Oklahoma and popular singer famed for her hit songs and controversial activism against gay rights, has passed away at the age of 84. She died on December 16 at her home in Edmond, Oklahoma, as reported by her family on news site The Oklahoman. The family has not disclosed the cause of death (HuffPost).

Born in Barnsdall, Oklahoma, Bryant began her singing career early, hosting a local television show at just 12 years old. She gained fame in the late 1950s as Miss Oklahoma and enjoyed success as a recording artist with chart-topping hits including “Till There Was You” and “Paper Roses.” Throughout the 1960s, she joined USO tours led by Bob Hope, sang at the White House, and performed at both major political party conventions in 1968. Additionally, she became a prominent spokesperson for various products, most notably Florida orange juice, with the memorable slogan, “A day without orange juice is like a day without sunshine” (AP News).

However, the late 1970s marked a pivotal shift in Bryant's life as her religious beliefs propelled her into a leading role in conservative activism. She spearheaded a successful campaign to repeal a Miami-Dade County ordinance that prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation, which was largely supported by religious figures like Rev. Jerry Falwell. Over time, Bryant's vocal opposition to gay rights drew significant backlash, leading to boycotts of her endorsements and public mockery, including a notable incident where an activist pie-faced her during an event (Los Angeles Times).

Her appeal dwindled as her career faltered; her first marriage ended, and she later filed for bankruptcy. In the years that followed, she operated Anita Bryant Ministries International, continuing to advocate for conservative values, despite her controversial history (SFGate).

Bryant is survived by four children, two stepdaughters, and seven grandchildren. Notably, her legacy remains contentious. While she won the campaign she led, many agree that over time, societal attitudes evolved to challenge her views, as seen in the eventual restoration of anti-discrimination laws in Florida (Los Angeles Times).