The family of U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, a longstanding congressional member and advocate for a Houston district with a predominantly Hispanic and Black population, announced her passing on Friday. The 74-year-old’s death is a great loss to the community she served.
The family of United States Representative Sheila Jackson Lee from the 18th Congressional District of Texas has announced her passing today. Despite the great sorrow of her loss, they are deeply grateful for the life she shared with them. Sheila Jackson Lee was a devoted advocate for the people and was fondly referred to as “Congresswoman” by her constituents. She served them tirelessly for over 30 years, making her nearly ubiquitous in their daily lives.
The family of the lawmaker has stated that arrangements for the funeral are currently pending.
In the beginning of last month, Jackson Lee disclosed that she had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and was undergoing treatment. She mentioned that she would be taking occasional breaks from her Congressional responsibilities.
In a statement released on June 2, Jackson Lee expressed her confidence in the treatment plan devised by her doctors to combat her specific illnesses. She acknowledged that the journey ahead may be challenging, but she maintained her faith in God to provide her with the strength necessary to overcome the obstacles in her path.
After her passing, a prayer and praise vigil was organized to show support for Jackson Lee’s courageous battle. It remains unknown whether her cancer was the underlying cause of her demise, as her family and office have not yet disclosed any details.
According to the Democrat’s office, since she secured her seat in 1994, she has achieved numerous accomplishments. Among her credits are the establishment of the Juneteenth Federal Holiday and the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act.
According to representatives of Jackson Lee, she made the greatest impression on us as our cherished spouse, sibling, parent, and Bebe (grandparent).
Elwyn Lee and their two children survive Jackson Lee.
Working in her last days
A week ago, Jackson Lee stood up for the rights of CenterPoint Energy customers and urged the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate the utility company’s handling of Hurricane Beryl.
In March, Jackson Lee secured her Democratic primary victory, putting her just months away from commencing her 16th term in the U.S. House of Representatives.
In the late part of last year, the lawmaker’s attempt to become Houston next mayor was unsuccessful as she lost in a runoff against John Whitmire, who emerged as the winner.
In 1989, she was elected to Houston City Council and served the city until her successful election to Congress. Only after her tenure as a council member did she ascend to the Capitol.