HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — On Thursday, family, friends, and fellow politicians gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of longtime Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee at a memorial service.
The service, titled “Remembering Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee,” began at 11 a.m. Central Time. Vice President Kamala Harris delivered the eulogy, praising Jackson Lee as a “true champion” who dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her work. “The congresswoman was a leader for Houston and for the nation, impacting lives across the country,” Harris said.
“She was a force,” Harris continued. “She never settled for mediocrity and always expected us to strive for excellence, knowing that life was too short and there was too much to be done.”
Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and President Bill Clinton also attended the service. Clinton highlighted Jackson Lee’s efforts to make Juneteenth a federal holiday, while Bill Clinton shared that Jackson Lee was the only freshman on his “Just Say Yes” list, signifying her strong influence and ability to get things done.
The service took place at Fallbrook Church and was closed to the public. Attendees were advised of road closures around the area, with alternative routes available via Veterans Memorial and T.C. Jester.
Jackson Lee, who passed away on July 19 at the age of 74, had a distinguished career in Houston politics, starting as a municipal court judge and later serving on the city council. She represented Texas’s 18th congressional district for nearly 30 years and was instrumental in renewing the Violence Against Women Act and sponsoring the bill that established Juneteenth as a federal holiday.
Her husband, Elwyn Lee, recalled a memorable incident where Jackson Lee braved a storm to help people in need, demonstrating her unwavering dedication to her community.
Earlier in the week, President Joe Biden visited Houston to pay his respects as Jackson Lee lay in state at City Hall. In the guestbook, he wrote, “Fearless, proud, and bold. May God bless a dear friend and great American.”
Security was heightened throughout the week as national and international dignitaries visited Houston. James Conway, a counterterrorism expert and former FBI member, noted that the extensive security measures were necessary due to the high-profile nature of the event.
The Houston Police Department, the Department of Public Safety, and the Secret Service were among the many agencies involved in ensuring the safety of the services and the city during this period of remembrance.
