SEATTLE -- Former Rep. Jennifer Dunn, a six-term Republican who at times anchored the Washington State Republican Party, died today of a pulmonary embolism at her apartment in Arlington. She was 66.

Dunn represented Washington's 8th District from 1993 to 2005. In 1998, Dunn ran for Majority Leader, losing out to Texas Rep. Dick Armey, and was an early supporter of then-Texas Gov. George W. Bush, serving on his exploratory committee.

Dunn becomes the second powerful Washington woman to pass away recently. Last week, former State Democratic Party chairwoman Karen Marchioro lost her long battle with cancer; her memorial service is set for today.

Marchioro, whose career in politics spanned forty years, was a must-have endorsement for any major candidate hoping for a strong showing in Washington State. She was one of four representatives to the Democratic National Committee after serving as chair until her death.

Both Dunn and Marchioro, who served as state party chairs concurrently, were the first women to chair Washington State political parties, and their legacies are still widely felt. Forty-eight members of the 147-seat legislature are women, while the state is the first to have two female senators and a female governor.

UPDATE: GOP Conference chairman Adam Putnam (R-FL) released the following statement on Dunn's passing:

"All those of us who have had the privilege to know and serve with Jennifer Dunn are deeply saddened to hear of her death.

"Jennifer's career has been described as a 'series of firsts,' and rightly so. In addition to being a pioneer, Jennifer was a great stateswoman who will long be remembered as a tireless leader on tax issues and a dogged advocate for working families.

"At this most difficult time, we send our sincerest condolences to Jennifer’s husband, Keith, and her two sons."

Washington State GOP chair Luke Esser added his own condolences:

"We are deeply saddened and shocked by the passing of Congresswoman Jennifer Dunn. She was a real champion for the State of Washington and will be truly missed. Jennifer embodied the principles we expect from leaders of political parties and elected officials. Her dedication to public service and record of accomplishment is an inspiration to all.

Jennifer was a trailblazer for women who cleared the way for others to follow with a career of firsts: first woman to chair the Washington State Republican Party; first freshman woman to win a place in the House Republican leadership team; and the highest ranking Republican woman in leadership as the vice chairman of the Conference. Her enduring legacy is an entire generation of Republican grassroots activists who learned through her to fight for their principles and values with thoughtfulness and grace.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jennifer's husband, her sons, and to her entire family during this very difficult time."