Pioneering Wichita Leader and Lawmaker Melody McCray-Miller Dies at 69

McCray-Miller was the first Black woman to serve on the Sedgwick County Commission and in the Kansas House of Representatives.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Melody McCray-Miller, a trailblazing Wichita politician and community leader, has died at the age of 69. McCray-Miller was the first African-American woman to serve on the Sedgwick County Commission, representing the 4th District, and later served as a State Representative for the 89th House District from 2005 to 2013. She also worked as an adjunct professor at Wichita State University and was the president and co-founder of Millers Inc. McCray-Miller.

Why it matters

McCray-Miller's passing marks the loss of a pioneering figure in Wichita and Kansas politics. As the first Black woman to hold several high-profile elected positions, she paved the way for greater diversity and representation in local and state government.

The details

In addition to her groundbreaking political career, McCray-Miller was also an adjunct professor at Wichita State University and the president and co-founder of Millers Inc. McCray-Miller. She had also worked to help ensure safer pregnancies and deliveries for Kansas women.

  • McCray-Miller served on the Sedgwick County Commission from the 1990s until the early 2000s.
  • She served in the Kansas House of Representatives from 2005 to 2013.
  • McCray-Miller stepped away from the Wichita Board of Education last year due to health concerns.
  • McCray-Miller passed away on February 23, 2026 at the age of 69.

The players

Melody McCray-Miller

The first African-American woman to serve on the Sedgwick County Commission and in the Kansas House of Representatives. She was also an adjunct professor at Wichita State University and the president and co-founder of Millers Inc. McCray-Miller.

Billy McCray

McCray-Miller's father, who also served in local government in Wichita.

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What they’re saying

“Melody McCray-Miller was a true trailblazer who dedicated her life to public service and making Wichita a better place for all. Her legacy will continue to inspire the next generation of leaders.”

— Wichita Mayor Brandon Whipple (foxkansas.com)

What’s next

McCray-Miller's funeral and memorial services are scheduled for this weekend in Wichita, where she is expected to be honored by local and state officials.

The takeaway

Melody McCray-Miller's pioneering career in Wichita and Kansas politics serves as an important reminder of the progress that can be made when barriers are broken and diverse voices are elevated to positions of leadership.