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4w ago

Trailblazing Texas Politician Carole Keeton Strayhorn Dies at 85

The first woman to serve as both Austin mayor and Texas comptroller is remembered for her public service and indomitable spirit.

In this file photo gubernatorial candidate Carole Keeton Strayhorn, center in glasses, waves to supporters in an audience where she made her concession speech surrounded by members of her family, Michelle McClellan, left front, Kathryn McClellan, right front, Scott McClellan, right rear, and his wife Jill, left rear, in Austin, Texas, Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2006. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
Carole Keeton, the first woman elected mayor in Austin and the first woman to be Texas comptroller, died this week. In this file photo, she appears at a campaign stop at a southwest Houston car dealership in 2006.
Carol Keeton Strayhorn in 2006.

Overview

  • Carole Keeton Strayhorn, a pioneering Texas politician, passed away on March 26, 2025, at the age of 85, surrounded by family in Austin.
  • She was the first woman elected as Austin's mayor, serving three terms beginning in 1977, and later became the first female Texas comptroller, holding the position from 1999 to 2007.
  • Strayhorn also served on the Texas Railroad Commission for one term in 1994 and ran several high-profile but unsuccessful campaigns, including a 2006 independent bid for governor.
  • Her family highlighted her deep commitment to improving the lives of Texans, emphasizing her tireless dedication to public service and ability to inspire change.
  • Tributes from public figures, including Austin Mayor Kirk Watson, celebrated her strong personality, humor, and lasting impact on Texas politics.