Judge Rules Utah Woman Legally Married to Deceased Partner

What’s the story?

• 74-year-old Bonnie Foerster wept tears of joy as a Utah state judge declared her and her longtime partner legally married three months after her now-wife died.

“I’m numb from happiness. I’m married,” Foerster said through tears outside the courtroom. “I’m a married woman. I’ve waited 50 years.”

What’s the backstory?

• Judge Patrick Corum declared Foerster and Beverly Grossaint – who died in May 2018 at the age of 82 – were a couple in the eyes of the state, despite not having had a registered marriage. Utah does not have common law marriage, but residents can petition the court to recognize a marriage. This case is not the first time a posthumous marriage has been declared legal.
• Utah legalized same-sex marriage in 2013, but Grossaint’s persistent health problems prevented the couple from getting a marriage license.
• "She was born for me and I was born for her," Foerster told the BBC. "We found each other. I believe that."

What do you think?

Should state judges have the power to legally wed living and deceased individuals? If Kavanaugh is confirmed, should the Supreme Court revisit same-sex marriage? Hit Take Action and tell your reps, then share your thoughts below.

—Josh Herman

(Photo Courtesy Bonnie Foerster)