Derek Humphry, a journalist who became a leading voice in the right-to-die movement, has died at 94. His journey began in 1975 when he helped his terminally ill wife, Jean, end her life to avoid prolonged suffering. This deeply personal experience shaped his mission to advocate for physician-assisted suicide.

In the early 1980s, Humphry almost single-handedly sparked a national conversation about the topic in the U.S., a time when it was rarely discussed outside academic circles. He founded the Hemlock Society, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals seeking control over their end-of-life decisions.

Humphry’s 1991 book, Final Exit, became a bestseller, offering practical guidance on assisted suicide. Written in straightforward language, it resonated with many and brought the controversial issue into mainstream dialogue.

“He was the one who really put this cause on the map in America,” said a historian familiar with Humphry’s work. His approach was direct and unflinching, making him a polarizing yet influential figure.

Humphry passed away on January 2 in Eugene, Oregon, at a hospice facility. His legacy continues to shape debates around end-of-life choices, leaving a lasting impact on the right-to-die movement.