AUSTIN __ Texas state leaders sent prayers and hope to a former colleague on Friday as authorities combed the San Antonio area for former Texas House First Lady Julie Straus, missing since Thursday evening.
Straus is the wife of former House Speaker Joe Straus, who retired from office in 2019 after seven terms in the House – five of them as speaker.
Julie Straus, 64, was last seen at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday in the 200 block of Geneseo Road in Terrell Hills, according to a silver alert issued overnight by the Texas Department of Public Safety.
DPS issues alert for Julie Straus, former Texas House First Lady, who went missing in San Antonio on Oct. 16, 2025.
Karen Brooks Harper
State lawmakers, some of whom served in the House with Straus, were quick to offer support.
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“Our hearts are heavy as we pray for the safe return of Julie Straus,” Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, posted on X on Friday. “Elisabeth and I are holding the Straus family close in our thoughts, and the entire Texas Legislature is embracing them with love and support.”
Allen Republican state Rep. Jeff Leach, who joined the House two years before Joe Straus, shared the news with a phone number Texans can call for tips.
“Julie Straus is as sweet and as strong as they come,” Leach posted on X. “Praying diligently for her — and for Speaker Straus and their entire family.”
Texas House Republican Caucus Chair Tom Oliverson posted a prayer for her safe return.
“Praying for Julie Straus, former First Lady of the Texas House, her husband @SpeakerStraus and her family. May God put a hedge of protection around her and may she be found quickly.”
Former House Speaker Dennis Bonnen joined the chorus of concern for his friend and former colleague’s family, saying on X that his family is “heartbroken to hear that our dear friend Julie Straus is missing.”
“She is one of the kindest, warmest people you’ll ever meet,” the statement said. “Our hearts ache for the Straus family, and we are praying for Julie’s safe return and for strength and comfort for Joe and their loved ones.”
Residents may contact the Terrell Hills Police Department at210-824-1009or210-420-7304if they have helpful information.
This is a developing story and will be updated.