WASHINGTON — Former Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas, a pioneering figure in Texas Republican politics and a longtime member of Congress, has died at the age of 83, prompting an outpouring of tributes from lawmakers and public officials across the state and Washington.
Granger’s son, J.D. Granger, confirmed her death. A cause was not immediately released. Her family had previously disclosed that dementia-related issues contributed to her prolonged absence from Washington during much of 2024, following what Granger had described as unforeseen health challenges during the final months of her congressional career.
Granger leaves behind a nearly three-decade record of public service and a legacy defined by historic firsts. She became the first woman elected mayor of Fort Worth, the first Republican woman elected to represent Texas in the U.S. House and the first Republican woman to chair the powerful House Appropriations Committee.
Her death drew tributes from Republican leaders and Texas officials, who praised her leadership, dedication to her constituents and influence on national defense and federal spending.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., described Granger as a close friend and highlighted her long career in public service, which included work as a teacher and businesswoman before she entered elected office.
Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, also praised Granger’s decades of service, particularly her work on behalf of North Texas, the military and national defense.
Rep. Craig Goldman, R-Texas, who succeeded Granger in the 12th Congressional District, called her a legend whose impact on the community would endure.
From Fort Worth Politics to Congress
Born Norvell Kay Granger on Jan. 18, 1943, in Greenville, Texas, Granger was raised in Fort Worth. She graduated from Eastern Hills High School before earning a degree from Texas Wesleyan University in 1965.
Before entering politics, she worked as a high school teacher and later established a career in the insurance business. After becoming a single mother following her divorce, she raised three children while building a career in public service.
Her political journey began on the Fort Worth Zoning Commission, where she served from 1981 to 1989. She later joined the Fort Worth City Council and, in 1991, made history by becoming the city’s first woman mayor.
During her tenure, Granger focused on economic development, public safety and initiatives intended to support Fort Worth’s growth.
In 1996, she won election to Congress, beginning a 14-term career representing Texas’ 12th Congressional District from 1997 through her retirement in January 2025.
A National Defense Advocate
In Washington, Granger developed a reputation for focusing on fiscal matters, constituent services and national security. She served for 25 years on the House Appropriations Committee and ultimately became its chairwoman after Republicans regained control of the House in 2023.
She also became the first woman to chair the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, giving her significant influence over military spending.
Granger was a prominent supporter of the F-35 Lightning II program, which was manufactured by Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth and became an important part of the region’s defense economy.
She announced in 2023 that she would not seek reelection, choosing to complete her final term before retiring.
For Texas Republicans and the Fort Worth community, Granger’s death marks the passing of a political trailblazer whose career helped reshape the role of women in Republican leadership while leaving a lasting imprint on national defense and public service.
