Huntington Beach's 'Wonder Woman' Lee Love Ghione Dies at 70

Longtime organizer of the annual Surf City Splash and co-founder of Huntington Dog Beach remembered for her community spirit and generosity.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:18pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An impressionistic, out-of-focus photograph of people enjoying a sunny day at the beach, with dogs playing in the waves and surfers catching the swell, all captured in a hazy, dreamlike wash of warm colors and soft light.The vibrant coastal community that Lee Love Ghione dedicated her life to serving will remember her as a tireless advocate and the 'heartbeat' of Huntington Beach.Huntington Beach Today

Lee Love Ghione, a longtime resident of Huntington Beach, California, passed away on March 26 at the age of 70 due to complications after being hospitalized for spinal stenosis. Ghione was known as the 'heartbeat of this town' for her tireless efforts in organizing the annual Surf City Splash and co-founding the Huntington Dog Beach. She was also involved with the Miss Huntington Beach Scholarship Competition and was remembered for her generous spirit, love of animals, and motto 'Love what you do, do what you love'.

Why it matters

Ghione's passing marks the end of an era for Huntington Beach, as she was a beloved community figure who dedicated decades of her life to organizing iconic local events and championing causes that brought the city together. Her loss will be deeply felt by the many residents whose lives she touched through her volunteerism and infectious positivity.

The details

Ghione, who was known for dressing up as Wonder Woman for the annual Surf City Splash, took over organizing the New Year's Day event and rebranded it from the Pier Plaza Plunge. She was also the co-founder of the Huntington Dog Beach, a popular destination for local pet owners. In addition to her event organizing, Ghione was the president of the Sand Dollars of Huntington Beach, which coordinates the Miss Huntington Beach Scholarship Competition. She was remembered by those who knew her as always being generous with her time and possessions, often offering up a spare room or her car to visiting friends.

  • Ghione passed away on the evening of March 26, 2026.
  • A paddle out ceremony for Ghione is being planned for June 6, 2026 on the north side of the Huntington Beach Pier.
  • The Sand Dollars of Huntington Beach will honor both Ghione and former longtime Sand Dollars president June Dugmore at their annual Rose Garden ceremony at City Hall on June 5, 2026.

The players

Lee Love Ghione

A longtime resident of Huntington Beach, California who was known as the 'heartbeat of this town' for her tireless efforts in organizing the annual Surf City Splash and co-founding the Huntington Dog Beach. She was also involved with the Miss Huntington Beach Scholarship Competition.

Peter 'PT' Townend

The executive director of the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum.

Gabrielle Samiy

The current Miss Huntington Beach.

Don Ramsey

A local resident who was impressed by Ghione's dedication to the Surf City Splash and Huntington Dog Beach.

Melissa Murphy

A local artist known as Melissa Murals, and a friend of Ghione's.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“She was the heartbeat of this town.”

— Peter 'PT' Townend, Executive Director, Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum

“She was an amazing person. She did so much for Huntington Beach behind the scenes, so much. But she never wanted the attention for it. She'd always be there behind the scenes, working, getting other people to help her out.”

— Melissa Murphy, Local Artist

“She was just extremely hospitable. Generous, loving. She was a great lady.”

— Nate Dorman, Pastor, Community Bible Church

What’s next

A paddle out ceremony for Ghione is being planned for June 6, 2026 on the north side of the Huntington Beach Pier.

The takeaway

Ghione's passing marks the end of an era for Huntington Beach, as she was a beloved community figure who dedicated decades of her life to organizing iconic local events and championing causes that brought the city together. Her generous spirit, love of animals, and commitment to her community will be deeply missed.