Betty Hanson Becker, a longtime legislative worker and social activist in Hawai'i, died Jan. 4. She was 87.

Becker worked at the Hawai'i state Legislature for more than 30 years as a committee clerk and aide to several state representatives. Her work on issues ranged from abortion rights to opposing development of Magic Island. Most recently she was vocal in the Kaka'ako-Ala Moana community regarding development on Ke'eaumoku Street, according to family friend Marian Tsuji.

Along with husband Jim, a former foreign correspondent for The Associated Press, Becker traveled around the world at least six times and lived in New York; Tokyo; and Manila, Philippines, before settling in Hawai'i.

She is survived by husband, Jim, and goddaughters, Tina Escoda of New York City, Carrie Brooks of San Francisco and Ming Roxas of Manila.