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U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee has died

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Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who revealed in June that she was being treated for pancreatic cancer, died Friday at the age of 74.

His family released a statement announcing his death.

Jackson Lee, a fierce advocate for minority and women’s rights, was also known for her propensity to show up at photo ops and her toughness with her staff. Last year, the veteran politician lost her bid for Houston mayor to fellow Democrat John Whitmire, but she soon announced her decision to run for her seat in the 18th Congressional District. She won the March primary against former Houston City Councilwoman Amanda Edwards. The district is heavily Democratic, and she was widely expected to win the Nov. 5 general election.

Jackson Lee held his seat in Congress for 30 years.

Local Democratic politicians quickly issued statements praising Jackson Lee’s career. Former Mayor Sylvester Turner wrote:

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. From City Hall to the halls of Congress, Sheila Jackson Lee served her constituents well. She wrote and passed key legislation and stood in the United States House of Representatives to passionately advocate for her constituency and the country she loved. She worked with and advised the presidents of our great country, met with world leaders, and was hosted by world-renowned artists. But her work on the ground in some of the poorest and most under-resourced communities, moving billions of federal dollars to her constituency, being at someone’s bedside, offering words of comfort to families who lost loved ones, her appearances at houses of worship and events that showcased our city’s global diversity, and her uncanny ability to be everywhere, working every day for those who needed an advocate, made her truly exceptional.

Congressman Al Green wrote: “This is a great loss to those suffering injustice around the world. Although we have lost her physical presence, her spiritual presence will continue to reside in all who knew her.”

Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis wrote, “Through crises and disasters, as well as triumphs, Sheila’s relentless and unwavering dedication to those she represented served as an inspiration and a source of strength in my career. She demonstrated that dedication every day through her actions, deeds and accomplishments. She was a beloved mother, grandmother and confidant who leaves behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to our community.”

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