Former Wanaka resident Jan Janata died this month after a stroke while carrying out volunteer work in the United States.
Ms Janata and her partner Kate Bariletti were married in Alexandra on August 19, 2013, the day the Marriage (Definition of Marriage) Amendment Act came into effect.
The Otago Daily Times reported at the time they were among 31 same-sex couples married in New Zealand that day.
Friends have begun a givealittle page to raise money to enable Ms Bariletti, who is an American citizen, to return to Wanaka.
A Facebook post this week said Ms Bariletti did not know where she would call home in the future.
"We know that Kate would like to come back to visit New Zealand and have the opportunity to grieve for Jan with their New Zealand family and friends ... However, lack of funds may prevent her from doing this."
A total of $1750 has been raised so far.
The couple, who were well known in Wanaka for their support of the library, were touring the United States.
