BCN #41 Texas Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee dies at age 74

BCN #41
Texas Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee dies at age 74

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a Houston Democrat who had served in Congress since 1995, has died.

Jackson Lee, who disclosed less than two months ago that she had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, was 74.

Her family announced her death on Friday evening: “With incredible grief for our loss yet deep gratitude for the life she shared with us, we announce the passing of United States Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of the 18th Congressional District of Texas.” Jackson Lee’s death was confirmed by Lillie Conley, her chief of staff.
Along with fellow Democrat Lloyd Doggett, she was the senior member of the current Texas delegation.

“As a powerful voice for our Constitution and human rights, she fought tirelessly to advance fairness, equity and justice for all,” former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi wrote on X in a statement that also saluted “her relentless determination.”

Jackson Lee was known as a strong advocate for women and minorities, serving proudly in the same Texas district once represented by Barbara Jordan, the first African American woman elected to Congress from the South since the Reconstruction era of the 19th century.

“Her unyielding zest for justice and fair play could never be suppressed,” said Rep. Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.) in a statement. “She worked so hard for what she believed in and made all of us around her work just as hard. I will miss my buddy, who refused to let the world silence her voice.”

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