Gay Journalist Thom Senzee Is Dead at 54

Thom Senzee, a gay award-winning political journalist, died in Palm Springs sometime between Monday, March 21 and Tuesday, March 22. He was 54.

He had been staying with a friend until he was able to move to a new apartment in the city, according to Weho Times. The friend said that he heard a loud sound come from Senzee's room the morning of March 22, but assumed it was Senzee's cat.

The veteran journalist's death is currently under investigation by the coroner's office, according to the Los Angeles Blade.

For more than 30 years, Senzee worked in journalism. His immense work included founding and moderating LGBTs in the News, serving as a correspondent for The Advocate, writing as a HuffPost signature blogger, and being the former Editor in Chief of LGBT Weekly. Senzee's work was featured in publications such as Out, the Washington Blade, and the Fight Magazine.

Senzee also served on the board of directors of the San Diego Press Club. He was a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, the Los Angeles Press Club, and the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association.

"I admired, respected and learned so much about journalism, compassion and ultimately life from Thom Senzee," Marco Colantonio, founder and former editor of Weho Times told the outlet. "He was a talented journalist who respected the truth, a caring, and insightful friend and perhaps the most decent guy I've ever met. It was a privilege to have worked with him, an honor to be his friend and humbling beyond words to hear him refer to me as his Publisher. The world is a better place for your voice and kindness."

Karen Ocamb, a correspondent and former editor for The Los Angeles Blade, said, "Thom Senzee was indefatigable. He loved the news. He loved journalists reporting the news. And he especially loved LGBTQ reporters and media personalities putting their spin on news about LGBTQ people and the ongoing issue of AIDS. Several times he invited me to sit on panels he created in conjunction with the Los Angeles Press Club. As host, Thom would throw out a question like: 'Have sexual orientation and gender identity become non-issues?' and then let actors Jason Stuart and the late Alexis Arquette and me vie for 'air time' in response. It was a hoot - and informative. And family. We need more folks like Thom Senzee. He will be missed."

Senzee leaves behind a brother and two sisters.