HOUSTON — Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee died at 74, her family announced Friday night.
"With incredible grief for our loss yet deep gratitude for the life she shared with us, we announce the passing of United States Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of the 18th Congressional District of Texas," her family said in a statement.
Known by her constituents as simply, "Congresswoman," Jackson Lee served the public for more than 30 years.
"A local, national, and international humanitarian, she was acknowledged worldwide for her courageous fights for racial justice, criminal justice, and human rights, with a special emphasis on women and children," a statement from her family said.
Last month, Jackson Lee announced she was fighting pancreatic cancer. In a statement at the time of the announcement, Jackson Lee said she was undergoing treatment to battle the disease "that impacts tens of thousands of Americans every year."
"She will be dearly 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," Jackson Lee's family said.
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Jackson Lee had a hand in several legislative victories over the decades, including establishing the Juneteenth Federal Holiday and reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act.
Read the family's full statement below:
Jackson Lee was born on Jan. 12, 1950, in Queens, New York. She served on the Houston City Council from 1989 to 1994 and was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1995.
In March, she beat Amanda Edwards in the Democratic primary. The Houston lawmaker was on three Congressional committees. She was a senior member of the House Committee on the Judiciary, Homeland Security and the Budget Committee.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
Rep. Al Green spoke to KHOU 11 anchors Len Cannon and Mia Gradney after learning of Jackson Lee's passing:
Bishop James Dixon, a longtime friend in Houston who visited Jackson Lee earlier this week, said he will remember her as a fighter.
“She was just a rare, rare jewel of a person who relentlessly gave everything she had to make sure others had what they needed. That was Sheila,” he said.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California cited Jackson Lee’s “relentless determination” in getting Juneteenth declared a national holiday.
“As a powerful voice in the Congress for our Constitution and human rights, she fought tirelessly to advance fairness, equity and justice for all," Pelosi said.
Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said he and his wife Cecilia will always remember Jackson Lee, calling her a “tireless advocate for the people of Houston.”
“Her legacy of public service and dedication to Texas will live on,” he said.
Former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner issued this statement after learning of Jackson Lee's death:
"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. She has written and passed key legislation and has stood on the floor of the United States House of Representatives speaking passionately for the interests of her district and the country she loved. She has worked with and advised Presidents of our great country, met with global leaders, and has been embraced by world renowned artists. But her work on the ground, in some of the poorest and under-resourced communities; the channeling of billions of federal dollars back to her district; her presence at someone’s bedside, giving words of comfort to families who lost loved ones; her appearances at places of worship and events showcasing the global diversity of our City; and her uncanny ability to be everywhere, working every day for those who needed a champion, made her truly exceptional.
"When she was elected to the United States House of Representatives she stood in the shadow of Barbara Jordan, Mickey Leland and Craig Washington. Without question, she rose to the occasion and served with great distinction. Even if you disagreed with her politics, you had to respect her work ethic. We can honestly say Sheila Jackson Lee left it all on the field. Rest in peace my sister. Thank you for all you gave us. And, thank you to her family for sharing her with us. We will not forget her sacrifice or yours. Sheila – to God be the glory for the good you have done. It was truly a job well done!"
Rep. Wesley Hunt released this statement on Jackson Lee's death:
"It is with profound sadness that I acknowledge the passing of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a devoted leader, a proud-fellow Houstonian, and someone who I was proud to call a friend.
"Although we had our political disagreements, there were many moments with her, both public and private, that showed me that bipartisanship and service to country first can still bring members of Congress together.
"In these divided times, Congresswoman Lee and I were able to partner on several legislative initiatives for the city of the Houston. Her steadfast commitment to serving the people of Houston and her tireless work have left an indelible mark on our community and our nation.
"Her legacy of dedication and compassion will continue to inspire us all. Emily and I extend our thoughts and prayers to her family and loved ones during this difficult time. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched and those she served."