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Representative Sheila Jackson Lee has died at the age of 74, her family said

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Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who served for decades in Texas’ 18th District and announced her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in early June, has died, according to a statement from her family.


FILE – Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, Democrat of Texas, ranking Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee’s subcommittee on crime and federal oversight, delivers opening remarks during an oversight hearing on the Drug Enforcement Administration on Capitol Hill in Washington, July 27, 2023. Lee says she has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and is undergoing treatment. The Texas Democrat is seeking a 16th term and said late Sunday, June 2, 2024, she is confident doctors have developed a strong plan to combat her disease. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough, File)(AP/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who served for decades in Texas’ 18th District and announced her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in early June, has died, according to a statement from her family.

“Today, with incredible sadness for our loss but also deep gratitude for the life she shared with us, we announce the death of U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas’ 18th Congressional District,” the statement said.

“Her legislative achievements impacted millions, from establishing the federal Juneteenth holiday to reinstating the Violence Against Women Act. But most of all, she impacted us as our beloved wife, sister, mother and bebe (grandmother). We will miss her greatly, but her legacy will continue to inspire all who believe in freedom, justice and democracy.”

According to the family, preparations for the funeral are still pending.

The reason for her death has not yet been made public.

Lee was born in Queens, New York in 1950.

From 1995 she served as representative for Texas.

Among her many accomplishments, Lee was the author and chief sponsor of the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, which took effect in 2021 – the first new holiday to be established in 38 years.

Lee leaves behind two children and her husband Elwyn Lee.

This story is developing. Check back with WTOP for updates.

Will Vitka of WTOP contributed to this report.

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