'My high school sweetheart': U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie shares news of his wife's death

U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie's wife died Thursday, according to a post shared by the Kentucky Republican on social media.

Thomas Massie posted the news on X, formerly known as Twitter, Friday morning, calling his wife, Rhonda Massie, his "high school sweetheart ... the smartest kindest woman I ever knew, my beautiful and wise queen forever."

The Massies were married for over 35 years, according to the post.

Thomas Massie, who represents Kentucky's 4th Congressional District, also highlighted Rhonda Massie's achievements, including being named valedictorian in high school and earning a mechanical engineering degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Thomas and Rhonda Massie had four children together and lived on a cattle farm in Kentucky.

Information has not been released about Rhonda Massie's cause of death.

Outpouring of support for Massie family

U.S. Rep. Andy Barr, who represents Kentucky's 6th Congressional District, said on social media he was saddened to hear about Rhonda Massie's passing, and he would keep Thomas Massie and his family "in his thoughts and prayers."

Republican U.S. Rep. Brett Guthrie, who represents Kentucky's 2nd Congressional District, called Rhonda Massie an "incredible woman" and said in a post he will stand with Thomas Massie and his family "during this difficult time."

Republican U.S. Rep. James Comer, who represents Kentucky's 1st Congressional District, said he and his wife were "deeply saddened by the news" and called Rhonda Massie "a beautiful person on the inside and out."

Former Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron said Massie and his family would be in his thoughts and prayers.

The Kentucky State Senate Majority Caucus also posted their support on X and said their thoughts and prayers are with Massie and his family.

Reach reporter Hannah Pinski at @hpinski@courier-journal.com or follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @hannahpinski.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Rep. Thomas Massie's wife Rhonda Massie dies, Kentucky Republican says