Missy Shorey, first woman elected Dallas County Republican Party chair, dies

WASHINGTON – Dallas Republican Party Chairwoman Missy Shorey has died.

She was 47, according to multiple media reports.

Shorey was a local trailblazer — the first woman elected to lead the Dallas GOP, in 2017. She was reportedly considering a bid for Congress next year against U.S. Rep. Colin Allred of Dallas for the Texas 32nd District.

Shorey led the Dallas Republican Party during a point of enormous transition on a graceful note. The county has flipped to the Democrats in recent cycles and her own party has contended with the same Tea-Party-versus-establishment divide that has been a thorn in the side of local Republican parties throughout the country. A year ago, D Magazine described her role as the county GOP leader as "the most impossible job in Dallas."

Ronda Kay Moreland, a local radio producer, confirmed the news Wednesday via Twitter:

"As a precinct chair of the Dallas County Republican Party I am heartbroken for the tragic loss of our County Chair Missy Shorey," she wrote. "I know our entire Party is shocked to hear this news. Our family extends our prayers to Mark & Missy’s entire family."

In a statement Wednesday, the Dallas County GOP said people described her as passionate, driven and loyal. The party statement said Shorey relished her role as the organization's leader.

"She was a tireless champion for the Party, its candidates, and mission," the statement said. "Missy had an infectious spirit that inspired many. We are grateful for the blessing we have had to know her and to work with her, and even more importantly, to call her a friend."

Political insiders who knew Shorey described her as vivacious and energetic, a happy warrior who was willing to make her party's case to any audience. In her time as chairwoman, she was also seen as keenly interested in veterans' issues and as a party leader who was fired up to win back seats in Dallas County in 2020.