Longtime Houston Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Dies at 74

“A staunch defender of the people, she was affectionately and simply nicknamed “MP” by her constituents, in recognition of her near-ubiquitous presence and service in their daily lives for over 30 years.”

Jackson Lee, a Democrat, was born and raised in Queens, New York, before moving with her husband Elwyn Lee to Houston. After serving five years on the Houston City Council, Lee ran for the district’s seat in the House of Representatives in 1994, winning easily. She officially began representing the district in January 1995 and remained in that role until her death Friday.

The family said: “Her legislative victories impacted millions, from establishing the federal holiday Juneteenth to reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act. But she was most remembered as a beloved wife, sister, mother, and Bebe (grandmother). She will be greatly missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire all who believe in freedom, justice, and democracy. God bless you, Congresswoman, and God bless the United States of America.”

Bill and Hillary Clinton said in a statement Saturday after Lee’s death that she was “a courageous fighter for the people of Houston, one of the most effective leaders in the country, and a wonderful friend to Hillary and me. Throughout her nearly 30 years in Congress, she was a steadfast champion for women and children, a passionate advocate for sensible gun control reform, a fierce defender of the Constitution and the cause of justice, a prominent leader of the Congressional Black Caucus, and so much more.”