Rep. Thomas Massie Announces Death of Wife

Rhonda Massie, wife of Rep. Thomas Massie, died Thursday, according to a post shared by the Kentucky Republican on X.

“Yesterday, my high school sweetheart, the love of my life for over 35 years, the loving mother of our 4 children, the smartest and kindest woman I have ever known, my beautiful and wise queen to still, Rhonda went to heaven. Thank you for your prayers for our family during this difficult time,” Massie wrote.

Massie did not disclose the cause of death.

According to Massie, he and Rhonda attended the same high school, where she was valedictorian and the couple attended prom together. They attended college together at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where Rhonda earned a degree in mechanical engineering, according to Massie, and then co-founded SensAble Technologies, which they ran for a decade.

The Massies purchased the 1,200-acre tobacco farm where Rhonda grew up after selling the business.

Just last week, Massie said he and Rhonda were in Washington state, visiting their grandson and touring Mount Rainier.

“She was the best mom in the world! We love you Rhonda,” Massie wrote.

Massie is a libertarian-leaning Republican and a frequent foil to Republican leadership. In May, Massie supported a motion to release Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., which ultimately failed. His penchant for voting against bills, including bills proposed by his own party, earned him the nickname “Mr.” No.”

He has represented Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District since 2012.

The Chamber observed a minute’s silence on Friday and members paid their respects via social media.

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Rhonda Massie, the beloved wife of my friend and colleague Thomas Massie,” Kentucky Republican Rep. Andy Barr wrote on X. “Rhonda’s warmth, kindness, and dedication to her family and community touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

“I don’t know a more wonderful human being than Thomas Massie. My heart breaks for him and his family. I pray for them, asking for comfort in this time of unbearable grief,” wrote Utah Republican Sen. Mike Lee.