Democratic representative in the House of Representatives. Sheila Jackson Lee from Texas has died, her family said in a statement Friday evening.
The congressman died at the age of 74.
“It is with incredible sadness at our loss, but also with deep gratitude for the life she shared with us, that we announce the passing of U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee (R-Texas, 18th Congressional District),” her family said in a statement.
“As a local, national and international humanitarian aid organization, she has been recognized worldwide for her courageous fight for racial justice, criminal justice and human rights, with a special focus on women and children,” the statement said.
Congressman Jackson Lee was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in June.
“We will miss her dearly, but her legacy will remain an inspiration to all who believe in freedom, justice and democracy,” her family said.
As a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, she has served in Congress for about 30 years. Most recently, Jackson Lee reintroduced the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act in May.
Jackson Lee, who represented Texas's 18th District, which includes parts of Houston, recently won a primary to reclaim her seat.
Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee dies at 74, originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
