Search
Close this search box.

Houston Mourns: U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee Passes Away at 74 – Leaves Legacy of Advocacy and Service | VIDEO

*U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a three-decade member of Congress and a voice for Houston’s predominantly Hispanic and Black Houston district has died, the 74-year-old’s office said on Friday.

“Today, with incredible grief of our loss yet deep gratitude for the life she shared with us, we announced the passing of United States Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of the 18th Congressional District of Texas,” Jackson Lee’s office wrote. “A fierce champion of the people, she was affectionately and simply known as ‘Congresswoman’ by her constituents in recognition of her near-ubiquitous presence and service to their daily lives for more than 30 years.”

Jackson Lee’s passing marks the end of an era for the 18th Congressional District, an area she represented since 1994 with unyielding dedication.

The lawmaker’s office noted that funeral arrangements are pending.

Sheila Jackson Lee, 30-year Congress member, dies at 74 // Sheila Jackson Lee / Getty
Sheila Jackson Lee / Getty

Earlier last month, Jackson Lee disclosed her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, explaining that her treatment might lead to occasional absences from her Congressional duties.

“I am confident that my doctors have developed the best possible plan to target my specific diseases. The road ahead will not be easy, but I stand in faith that God will strengthen me,” Jackson Lee said in a statement on June 2. A prayer and praise vigil was subsequently held in her honor, showing the depth of community support.

During her tenure, Jackson Lee was instrumental in significant policy achievements. She championed the establishment of the Juneteenth Federal Holiday and played a pivotal role in the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act. “However, she impacted us most as our beloved wife, sister, mother, and Bebe (grandmother),” her office stated, highlighting her indelible contributions to her family and community.

Jackson Lee is survived by her husband Elwyn Lee and their two children. Her commitment to her constituents was unwavering, illustrated by her recent efforts advocating for CenterPoint Energy customers after Hurricane Beryl and her expected run for a 16th term in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner extended his heartfelt condolences, reflecting on Jackson Lee’s illustrious career and personal touch. “I am deeply saddened by the death of my dear friend and colleague, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. From City Hall to the Halls of Congress, Sheila Jackson Lee has served her constituents well. She has written and passed key legislation and has stood on the floor of the United States House of Representatives speaking passionately for the interests of her district and the country she loved. She has worked with and advised Presidents of our great country, met with global leaders and has been embraced by world-renowned artists. But her work on the ground, in some of the poorest and under-resourced communities; the channeling of billions of federal dollars back to her district; her presence at someone’s bedside, giving words of comfort to families who lost loved ones; her appearances at places of worship and events showcasing the global diversity of our City; and her uncanny ability to be everywhere, working every day for those who needed a champion, made her truly exceptional,” Turner said.

Jackson Lee’s journey in public service began in Houston, and her influence extended far beyond her district. Despite a recent setback in her bid to become Houston’s next mayor, she remained an influential figure in American politics up until her death. Her dedication and tireless work on behalf of the underprivileged and underserved communities will leave a lasting legacy.

While the nation mourns the loss of a legislative giant, her life and contributions will continue to inspire future generations to engage in public service and fight for social justice.

Sheila Jackson Lee’s legacy as a compassionate leader and advocate for the people will endure, and she will be remembered not only for her political achievements but also for the profound personal connections she fostered throughout her career.

MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee Announces Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis | VIDEO

We Publish News 24/7. Don’t Miss A Story. Click HERE to SUBSCRIBE to Our Newsletter Now!

Ari Lennox (Getty)
Angel Reese - screenshot
Love During Lockup
Trump - Harris (screenshot)
Blair Underwood - GettyImages-2161272236a
Starlink T-Mobile - via Getty
The Rivingtons - Papa Oom Maw Maw
'The Killer's Game' cast at LA Premiere - screenshot
Shannon Sharpe
Harvard University - iStock
Tyrese Gibson
Read More
Lizzo (Getty)
Read More
Tim Walz at 2024 DNC - screenshot
Read More
Steve Harvey
Read More
Elon Musk - Getty
Read More
Monica and Brandy
Read More
Ghostface Killah
Read More
Kamala Harris - via CBM
Read More
Lori Harvey
Read More
Sean Diddy Combs Beyonce Jay-Z / GettyImages
Read More

POPULAR

Ari Lennox (Getty)
Ari Lennox Won't Identify Home Robbers for Safety Reasons
Angel Reese - screenshot
Angel Reese Launches 'Unapologetically Angel' Podcast, Talks About Love Life
Love During Lockup
'Love After Lockup' Exclusive Clip: 'Julian Has a MAJOR Secret' | Watch
Trump - Harris (screenshot)
Pastor Blames 'Witchcraft' for Donald Trump's Poor Debate Performance
Blair Underwood - GettyImages-2161272236a
Blair Underwood and Wife Dazzle at 'Three Women' Premiere | PICs
Starlink T-Mobile - via Getty
No More Dead Zones! Musk's SpaceX and T-Mobile Usher in New Era of Connectivity with Direct-to-Mobile Internet from Starlink | WATCH
The Rivingtons - Papa Oom Maw Maw
Rememba This One: 'Papa-Oom-Mow-Mow' - A Timeless Doo-Wop Hit That Captured the Spirit of the 60s | ListenWatch
'The Killer's Game' cast at LA Premiere - screenshot
The Killer’s Game LA Premiere: A Night of Action, Romance, and Laughter | EURexclusiveWATCH
Shannon Sharpe
Shannon Sharpe's Viral Slip Won't Lead to Discipline from ESPN - 'You Ain’t Gay Today!,' Katt Williams Quipped | LISTEN to the Steamy Action
1 2 3 8,290