Kay Granger, who made history as Fort Worth's first female mayor and served nearly three decades in Congress, passed away on August 2, 2026, at the age of 83. Her death was announced by House Speaker Mike Johnson, although no cause was disclosed.
Granger began her political career on the Fort Worth City Council before being elected mayor in 1991, serving until 1995. She was sworn into the U.S. House on January 3, 1997, representing Texas' 12th Congressional District, and became the first Republican woman from Texas to hold a seat in the House.
She retired in January 2025, after nearly 28 years in office, with Rep. Craig Goldman succeeding her.
Throughout her career, Granger was instrumental in various local projects, including bringing FedEx to Fort Worth and advocating for the F-16 and F-35 programs at the Lockheed Martin facility, the city's largest employer. She also played a significant role in the Panther Island flood control project, which has an estimated cost of $1.16 billion.
In her later years, Granger faced health challenges, including dementia, and had been residing in a senior living facility in Fort Worth since July 2024. Local leaders, including Mayor Mattie Parker, expressed their sorrow over her passing, highlighting her dedication and impact on the community. Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.