Kay Granger, Trailblazing Texas Politician and First Female Fort Worth Mayor, Dies at 83
Texas is mourning the loss of Kay Granger, a pioneering political figure who spent decades breaking barriers in local and national government. Granger, the first woman to serve as mayor of Fort Worth and the first Republican woman elected to the U.S. House from Texas, died at the age of 83.
Her death was announced Sunday evening by House Speaker Mike Johnson, who described Granger as a dedicated public servant whose career reflected a lifetime commitment to her community and country.
Granger’s passing marks the end of a remarkable political journey that stretched from Fort Worth city government to one of the most influential positions in Congress.
A Career Built on Breaking Barriers
Long before she became a nationally recognized lawmaker, Granger built her reputation through local leadership. She began her professional life as a teacher and businesswoman before entering public service through the Fort Worth zoning commission and city council.
In 1991, she made history when she was elected mayor of Fort Worth, becoming the first woman to hold the position. Her victory represented a major milestone for women in Texas politics and helped open doors for future generations of female leaders.
Her time as mayor established her as a respected figure in Fort Worth, where she focused on city development and strengthening the community she represented.
Three Decades Representing North Texas in Congress
Granger took her career to the national stage in 1996 when she ran for the U.S. House of Representatives in Texas’ 12th Congressional District.
Her victory made her the first Republican woman elected to Congress from Texas, adding another historic achievement to her career.
Over nearly three decades in Washington, Granger became known as a powerful voice for Fort Worth and North Texas. She served on the influential House Appropriations Committee for 25 years, a position that placed her at the center of decisions involving federal spending priorities.
First Woman to Lead House Appropriations Committee
One of Granger’s most significant achievements came in January 2023 when she became chair of the House Appropriations Committee.
The role made her the first woman in history to lead the powerful committee, which oversees federal funding decisions across government agencies.
Her appointment represented another breakthrough moment in a career defined by firsts. She held the chair position until April 2024 before stepping away from the role.
Leaders Remember a Mentor and Public Servant
Following news of her death, political leaders from across Texas and Washington paid tribute to Granger’s service.
House Speaker Mike Johnson called her a friend and praised her dedication to Fort Worth and the country. He highlighted her role in breaking barriers for women in public service.
Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker also remembered Granger as a mentor and friend, saying she learned from Granger’s work ethic, commitment, and dedication to Texas.
Other Republican leaders, including U.S. Rep. Lisa McClain of Michigan, said Granger’s influence on Congress and the nation would not be forgotten.
Health Challenges Led to Retirement
Granger retired from Congress in January 2025 after nearly 30 years in office. Her decision came after facing health challenges and extended absences from Washington.
Details about the cause of her death have not been released. Funeral arrangements had also not been announced at the time of the report.
Her retirement marked the conclusion of one of the longest congressional careers in Texas political history.
A Legacy That Extends Beyond Politics
For many supporters and colleagues, Granger’s legacy is not only defined by the positions she held but also by the paths she helped create.
From becoming Fort Worth’s first female mayor to leading one of Congress’ most powerful committees, she repeatedly entered spaces where women had rarely held top leadership roles.
Her career reflected a changing political landscape and demonstrated the growing influence of women in American government.
Remembering Kay Granger’s Impact
Kay Granger’s life represented decades of public service, leadership, and historic achievements. She moved from local government in Fort Worth to the highest levels of federal decision-making while maintaining a connection to the community that launched her career.
As Texas remembers one of its most influential political figures, Granger leaves behind a record defined by persistence, leadership, and a series of milestones that reshaped what was possible for women in public office.
Her story will remain part of Fort Worth’s history and the broader story of women’s advancement in American politics.
