HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Elected officials from across the nation are expressing their condolences following the death of longtime Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who passed away on Friday at the age of 74.
Sheila Jackson Lee, who began her tenure in Congress in 1995, was renowned both locally and nationally for her staunch advocacy for civil rights. President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden issued a heartfelt statement on her passing:
“Sheila Jackson Lee was a great American. I had the honor of working with her during her nearly 30 years in Congress. No matter the issue – from delivering racial justice to building an economy for working people – she was unrelenting in her leadership. Always fearless, she spoke truth to power and represented the power of the people of her district in Houston with dignity and grace. Those character traits established her as a towering figure in our politics. We saw it through her efforts to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act, make Juneteenth a federal holiday, reintroduce the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, and so much more. Her character revealed itself time and again, including in her battle against cancer. Her brilliant spirit was unbreakable. Sheila Jackson Lee is part of a long line of patriots who delivered the promise of America to all Americans. Jill and I send our love and condolences to her family, her constituents, and beloved colleagues of the Congressional Black Caucus. May God bless our friend, Sheila Jackson Lee.”
Vice President Kamala Harris also shared her condolences:
“Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee was a tenacious advocate for justice, a tireless fighter for the people of Houston and the people of America, and a dear friend for many years. She was relentless — one of our nation’s fiercest, smartest, and most strategic leaders.”
In Houston, several leaders paid tribute to Lee’s legacy. Former Houston mayor Sylvester Turner expressed his sadness and respect:
“I am deeply saddened by the death of my dear friend and colleague, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. From City Hall to the Halls of Congress, Sheila Jackson Lee has served her constituents well.”
Congressman Al Green also mourned her passing:
“My condolences to @JacksonLeeTX18 immediate family, staff, & extended family. This is a great loss to people across the globe suffering injustice. Although we’ve lost her physical presence, her spiritual presence will continue to reside in all who knew her.”
Texas Southern University, where Lee was a staunch supporter, released a statement highlighting her contributions:
“Texas Southern University is deeply saddened by the passing of @JacksonLeeTX18 (Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee). The University is grateful for her ardent support of our institution, and her unyielding work to ensure TSU’s name was spoken in the halls of Congress.”
Houston’s mayor, John Whitmire, Lee’s opponent in the mayoral race, asked everyone to pray for her family, while Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis shared a statement on her passing. District F Council Member Tiffany D. Thomas and Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham also expressed their condolences.
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg shared his sentiments:
“Saddened to hear of the passing of Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee. She was an extraordinary advocate for her district and her values, and her impact and achievements will be long remembered.”
Pastor Joel Osteen of Lakewood Church reflected on their nearly 30-year friendship:
“Victoria and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our friend, Representative Sheila Jackson Lee and we offer our heartfelt condolences and prayers to her family.”
Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee and the Harris County GOP also issued statements mourning Lee’s death. Rep. Sylvia Garcia and Texas Governor Greg Abbott joined in remembering her legacy, with Abbott saying:
“Cecilia and I will forever remember Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. She was a proud Texan and a tireless advocate for the people of Houston. Her legacy of public service and dedication to Texas will live on. Please join us in prayer for her family and loved ones.”
The Houston Police Department and the Houston Astros also paid tribute to Lee’s service and dedication to the community.
