In Memoriam: Bettie Page (1923-2008)

Pin-up model, fashion staple and counter-cultural icon, Bettie Page, passed away last night at the age of 85. Bettie had been hospitalized for three weeks with pneumonia and suffered a heart attack last week from which she did not regain conciousness.

Rising to fame in a 1955 issue of Playboy, she became vastly influential in fashion - particularly punk rock - as well as both the champion and bane of feminists for her unapologetic sexuality. Once asked about it, she replied simply:

I never thought it was shameful. I felt normal. It's just that it was much better than pounding typewriter eight hours a day, which gets monotonous.

Our condolences to her friends, family and fans.