Ride married fellow NASA astronaut Steve Hawley in 1982; they divorced in 1987. From 1985 until her death, Ride's female partner was Dr. Tam E. O'Shaughnessy, a childhood friend who met Ride when both youngsters were aspiring tennis players. O'Shaughnessy became a science teacher and writer and, later, the chief operating officer and executive vice president of Ride's company, Sally Ride Science. She also co-authored several books with Ride. Their same-sex relationship of 27 years was revealed in Ride's obituary released by Sally Ride Science and confirmed by Ride's sister. Her sister stated that Ride preferred to keep this information private during her life.
Her preference for privacy kept the focus on her achievements, not her (non)reproductive choice. You have to salute Ride's discipline and unwillingness to be made a political pawn. Condolences to her accomplished partner, who appears to have been at least an intellectual soulmate.
Well stated.