Mary Smith , who died at age 84 , battled for women 's rights in journalism . In 1965 , she became AP 's first full - time female White House correspondent . For nearly three decades , she was a general assignment editor and field reporter . `` All of journalism has lost a true pioneer . '' Was part of sex discrimination suit against AP that led to changes at news group .
Mary Smith , who died at age 84 , battled for women 's rights in journalism . In 1965 , she became AP 's first full - time female White House correspondent . For nearly three decades , she was a general assignment editor and field reporter . Was part of sex discrimination suit against AP that led to changes at news group .