Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), a longtime congresswoman who served three many years in Congress, has died on the age of 74, her household introduced in an announcement Friday evening.
“At this time, with unimaginable grief for our loss but deep gratitude for the life she shared with us, we announce the passing of United States Consultant Sheila Jackson Lee of the 18th Congressional District of Texas,” the assertion learn.
Her household didn’t observe a reason for dying, nevertheless, Jackson Lee confirmed she was recognized with pancreatic most cancers simply over a month in the past, in early June, and was present process therapy.
On the time, she wrote that she would method her most cancers battle “with the identical religion and the identical braveness” because the battle for justice and equality for all. She added that “the highway forward won’t be straightforward” however had “religion that God will strengthen me.”
First elected to the Home in 1994, Jackson would go on to be a serving member of Congress for 30 years. She was additionally a member of the Congressional Black Caucus and served on the Home Judiciary, Homeland Safety and Funds Committees.
Within the assertion, her household described her as a “fierce champion of the individuals,” in addition to a “native, nationwide and worldwide humanitarian.”
“Her legislative victories impacted hundreds of thousands, from establishing the Juneteenth Federal Vacation to reauthorizing the Violence Towards Girls Act,” the household added.
Jackson Lee, who represented Texas’ 18th District, defeated former Houston Metropolis Councilwoman Amanda Edwards in a March main, certainly one of her tightest races to this point.
Jackson Lee’s Democratic colleague, Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), was on the air with CNN because the information broke, describing her as a “nationwide hero” for her work on progressive social and racial points.
Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) in the meantime mentioned she was at “a loss for phrases so I’ll simply say relaxation straightforward,” in a social media tribute.
Former mayor of Houston, Sylvester Turner, mentioned he was “deeply saddened” on the information whereas Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) wrote, “She was a proud Texan and a tireless advocate for the individuals of Houston. Her legacy of public service and dedication to Texas will reside on.”
Additionally among the many tributes Friday evening had been Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX), who mentioned Jackson Lee was “a tireless advocate for Houston.” He added he “will at all times cherish our friendship & the laughs we shared all through the years.”
Jackson Lee’s household completed their assertion by including how “she impacted us most as our beloved spouse, sister, mom, and Bebe (grandmother).”
Funeral preparations are pending. Jackson Lee is survived by her husband Elwyn Lee and their two kids.