""Marlena was one of a kind-a dear and loving friend, an accomplished community leader, a savvy business person, and a hell of a lot of fun to be with. Marlena's grace, style, and wit were unmatched." -Mark Leno, California Statesman and friend"
""Marlena was truly one of San Francisco's best. She was always so kind to me and to so many others, and I will miss her dearly. Rest in power, my friend." -Scott Wiener, California State Senator"
""Empress Marlena's legacy will continue and live through the countless activists and leaders she mentored and advised, not only San Franciscans, but many within and outside of California. It was indeed my honor to name her Marlena the Magnificent, but also to proclaim her Queen Mother 1 of California. We both had strong personalities, but we respected each other. I will miss my sister of the Stonewall Generation." -Nicole Murray-Ramirez, Queen Mother 1 of the Americas, San Diego City/County Commissioner"
""Generous, kind, gracious, and truly a grande dame of the city, Marlena will long be remembered for her philanthropic work and her namesake bar Marlena's in Hayes Valley. We recall how unique and inviting this gathering place was, with its Christmas decorations, which she had collected and that were displayed year-round. Marlena (the drag persona of Garry McLain) herself always made guests feel special. Etched in our memories is Marlena holding court at a party for 2013 San Francisco Pride Parade Grand Marshals. Beautifully dressed and a towering figure in every respect, Absolute Empress XXV Marlena beamed as countless men buzzed aro""
Marlena, the drag persona of Garry McLain, served as a prominent San Francisco community leader, philanthropist, and longtime proprietor of Marlena's bar in Hayes Valley. Marlena held the title Absolute Empress XXV and received honors such as Marlena the Magnificent and Queen Mother 1 of California. Marlena was renowned for grace, style, wit, and a welcoming presence that made guests feel special. Marlena mentored and advised countless activists and leaders across and beyond California and regularly participated in Pride events. An imperial state funeral will be held Saturday, November 8 at noon at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 1111 O'Farrell Street.
Read at San Francisco Bay Times
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