Members of Congress took to social media to remember Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), who died Friday night at age 74.
Many of her colleagues highlighted Lee’s nearly three-decade career in Washington, calling her a “fierce advocate” and “fighter” for justice.
His family announced his death in a statement on Friday, but did not specify the cause. The news, however, comes just over a month since the Texas Democrat revealed that she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and was undergoing treatment.
She was first elected to the House in 1994. Jackson Lee served on the House Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Budget Committees. She was also deputy chief of House Democrats and vice chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus.
Her colleagues posted messages honoring the deputy’s mandate and offering condolences to her family.
Fellow Texas Democrat Rep. Jasmine Crockett posted a photo of the two women wearing pink outfits on social media platform X.
“Tonight, all Texans are mourning the loss of a legend, true social justice leader, public servant and my friend, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee,” Crockett said, adding that the late Jackson Lee was a “fierce advocate.” who never backed down.
“If you ever needed a living example of servant leadership, look no further – Congresswoman Jackson Lee was compassionate, resilient, and most importantly, always willing to get the job done!” she wrote.
Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-Texas) called Jackson Lee “tough, principled and gracious.”
“As a Black woman in Texas, you behaved in a way that demanded respect amidst the racism and misogyny you encountered,” Castro wrote on X. “I don’t think people realize how hard you worked every day.”
Castro said Jackson Lee made a difference for his community, for Houston and for the country. “You really mattered, Sheila,” he added.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said she learned of Jackson Lee’s death with “profound sadness.”
“Congresswoman Jackson Lee has achieved a remarkable legislative record in Congress for Houston and our country,” Pelosi posted it online. “As a powerful voice in defense of our Constitution and human rights, she fought tirelessly to promote fairness, equity and justice for all.”
Pelosi said the House Democratic Caucus was blessed to know Jackson Lee “and we will miss her greatly.”
Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) also said she was “heartbroken” to learn of Jackson Lee’s death in an X post.
“In her last message to me, she told me that she has always been a fighter. She was like that: always fighting for the people, for justice”, Jayapal wrote. “Love and comfort for your loved ones. May she rest in peace and power.”
Representative Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) highlighted Jackson Lee’s work ethic in her social media post
“Sheila Jackson Lee was a true legislator, committed to meaningful public policies. She spent every day on legislation, amendments, one minute and five minutes, using every tool available to members of Congress to rewrite the rules and challenge the system,” Waters said. “Her time in Congress was truly significant.”
Waters said he will miss the Texas congresswoman, who “has truly earned her place in the annals of history!”
Rep. Al Green, another Texas Democrat, called the news “a huge loss.”
“My condolences to the immediate family, employees and family of @JacksonLeeTX18. This is a great loss for people around the world who suffer injustice,” he wrote on X. “Although we have lost her physical presence, her spiritual presence will continue to reside in all who knew her. #SheilaJacksonLee.”
Rep. Gregory Meeks (DN.Y.) extended condolences to those affected by the death of Jackson Lee.
“His dedication to public service and the defense of justice and equality will always be remembered,” Meeks said online. “My thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones.”
Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.) highlighted Jackson Lee’s dedication to criminal and legal reform — and to the fight for black Americans.
“From her leadership in criminal legal reform and reparations to her dedication to the people of Houston – she was a force to be reckoned with,” Bush posted. “Sending love to his family, loved ones and constituents.”
Rep. Tom Suozzi (DN.Y.) also shared a photo of himself and Jackson Lee when they served together on the House Pakistan Caucus.
“Sheila was a fearless advocate for racial, criminal and social justice, as well as a trusted colleague and dear friend,” Suozzi wrote.
Colleagues across the hall also offered their condolences.
Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Florida) called the late congresswoman a “dedicated public servant.”
“Sheila Jackson Lee was a dedicated public servant who represented the people of Houston for more than three decades in federal and local government,” he wrote on X. “Erika and I pray for the strength of the congresswoman’s family. May her memory be a blessing.”
Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) said she was “saddened” to learn of Jackson Lee’s death.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of our fellow Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee,” she posted early Saturday. “We will be praying for his family and his eternal rest.”
Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) also posted Saturday in his honor: “End of an Era”.
Jackson Lee is survived by her husband, Elwyn Lee, and two children.
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