Rep. Thomas Massie’s wife Rhonda dies at 51, House holds moment of silence

"Yesterday my high school sweetheart, the love of my life for over 35 years, the loving mother of our 4 children, the smartest kindest woman I ever knew, my beautiful and wise queen forever, Rhonda went to Heaven. Thank you for your prayers for our family in this difficult time," Massie wrote in a post.

"She was valedictorian at our high school where we went to the Prom together, accepted at MIT and Harvard, earned a Mechanical Engineering degree from MIT, and devoted her life to our family," Massie added. "We spent last week touring Mt Rainier with our grandson - she was the best mammaw ever! We love you Rhonda."

The congressman posted photos of them touring Mt. Rainier last week with others. He shared a wedding photo, as well as old photos with her and their children.

Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) shared his condolences along with his wife Sharon, in post, saying, "This is truly heartbreaking. I didn’t know Rhonda well, but I know her husband. And based on that alone, and on what you’ve told me about her, I know she was an amazing woman. Sharon and I mourn with you today, and will keep you in our prayers."

Kelly Paul, the wife of Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), also offered condolences for the family, "Rhonda was a brilliant woman and a beautiful soul. She brought love and joy to all who knew her. Rand and I are praying for you and your family Thomas."

Georgia Rep. Mike Collins also shared words of comfort for his colleague, saying, "Praying for you, brother. Such an amazing, beautiful life worth sharing."

Massie did not share the cause of death in Rhonda's passing. She leaves behind four children as well as her husband. Many others expressed their condolences as he shared the news of her passing online.