Longtime equal rights activist dies

Delia Martinez, former executive director of the Nevada Equal Rights Commission and a 54-year resident of the state, died Jan. 19. She was 61.

The Rancho High School and University of Nevada, Reno graduate was a longtime community activist who served in a variety of organizations, including the Clark County Hispanic Democratic Caucus, the Clark County Democratic Black Caucus and the Henderson Democratic Club, where she was president.

The Clark County Democratic Party's Web site posted a tribute to Martinez, calling her "a tireless volunteer and a loyal Democrat" who always wore a smile.

Martinez also worked in Nevada government for a time as an employee with the State Industrial Insurance System.

She is survived by her husband, Glenn Phillips; son, Ben; sister, Patricia Martinez; and a large extended family.

Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday at La Paloma Funeral Services, 5450 Stephanie St.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4490 Mountain Vista St.