Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas) has died after a battle with pancreatic cancer, her office announced Friday night. She was 74 years old.
“Today, with deep sadness and profound gratitude for the life she shared with us, we announce the passing of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas’ 18th Congressional District,” her office said in a statement.
“She was a fierce advocate for the people and was affectionately known by her constituents simply as ‘Congresswoman’ for her near-omnipresent contributions to their daily lives for more than three decades,” the statement continued.
Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas) has passed away after a battle with pancreatic cancer. (Reuters/Erin Scott)
“A local, national and international humanitarian, she has been recognized worldwide for her courageous fight for racial justice, criminal justice and human rights, with a special focus on women and children,” her office said.
The statement added, “Her legislative victories, from the establishment of the Juneteenth federal holiday to the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act, inspired millions. But she impacted us most as our beloved wife, sister, mother, and bebe. She will be missed, but her work will continue to inspire all who believe in freedom, justice, and democracy. May God bless you, Congressman, and may God bless the United States of America.”
Funeral arrangements for the congressman are pending.
This is a developing story.
