Social Security Recognizes Missouri Same-Sex Marriage Claim

ST. LOUIS, MO — After more than three years and two appeals, the Social Security Administration has agreed to recognize the marriage of a same-sex couple from St. Louis. Ed Gentzler and William Parker moved to the city in 2008 for medical treatment after Parker was diagnosed with cancer. The two took a short bus ride and married in 2009 when Iowa became the third state in the country to recognize same-sex marriages. But, five years later, Parker died at the age of 79, and his husband was unable to claim his Social Security benefits.

Gentzler's Social Security claim was denied on the grounds that Missouri did not recognize same-sex marriage until forced to by the United States Supreme Court in 2015, just a few months after Parker's death.

“This weighed heavily on my heart for a long time, especially when the benefit denials would come on the anniversary of Bill’s death,” Gentzler said. “I’m relieved that it’s over and that others won’t have to go through this as they grieve for their loved ones.”

The two met and fell in love in 1987, but were forced to wait more than two decades until their relationship would be treated equally in the eyes of the law. In January, after two appeals and almost four years since his partner's death, the Social Security Administration approved Gentzler's benefits claim.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri represented Gentzler in court. “This decision affirms that same-sex couples should be able to receive the benefits of marriage, just like different-sex people do,” said the group's legal director Tony Rothert. “We must continue to dismantle unjust laws and policies to protect the rights of all Missourians.”

Read more about the couple's story.

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