According to KDVR-TV, Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee passed away Friday after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer.

Her diagnosis was shared with the public in June, striking a chord with many who admired her enduring dedication to public service.

The announcement of Representative Sheila Jackson Lee's (D-Texas) passing cast a somber mood throughout Congress. Flags at the U.S. Capitol were lowered to half-staff, and lawmakers from both parties came together to pay their respects and honor her memory.

Following her pancreatic cancer diagnosis in June, Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee’s demise marks a significant loss for Congress, met with tributes from colleagues across the political spectrum.

A Unified Congress Mourns Its Lost Member

The grief was palpable in the Capitol as members from both sides of the aisle gathered to pay their respects. Democratic and Republican lawmakers alike reflected on the profound impact that Jackson Lee had during her nearly three decades as a congresswoman from Houston.

During a Homeland Security Committee hearing on Tuesday, Rep. Mark Green (R-Tenn.), a notable Republican, asked his colleagues to rise and observe a moment of silence.

“Please rise and join me in observing a moment of silence to honor Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee’s memory,” declared Rep. Green, highlighting her passionate service.

Green reminisced about Jackson Lee as a friend and dedicated member of the committee, emphasizing, “Congresswoman Jackson Lee was a longtime member of this committee who always fought passionately for her constituents and causes that she believed would better the homeland.”

Tributes From Colleagues Highlight Her Advocacy

Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), echoed this sentiment, noting her fierce advocacy for first responders and victims of natural disasters in her district.

“There was no more fierce an advocate than Congresswoman Jackson Lee. Her absence will be felt just as much as her presence, and we will miss her dearly,” Thompson shared.

Another Democrat, Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.), commented on Jackson Lee’s vibrant presence at events. “The passion that she brought to every event that she participated in just meant a lot to all of us,” said Aguilar, encapsulating the energy she brought to her legislative duties.

Rep. Ted Lieu (D-Calif.) highlighted Jackson Lee’s relentless pursuit of justice and equality and her role in giving voice to the voiceless. “Every day she came into Congress and fought for justice and equality. She gave a voice to those who did not have a voice,” he added.

Legacy and Funeral Services Planned

Sheila Jackson Lee was instrumental in several significant legislative efforts, including leading initiatives to protect victims of domestic violence and the federal recognition of Juneteenth.

Her dedication to these causes marked her tenure in Congress and left an indelible impression on her colleagues and constituents.

A celebration of her life, led by Aguilar and Lieu, took place, with the entire Democratic Caucus reflecting on her impactful career. The event was not just a tribute but a reaffirmation of her life’s work, resonating deeply within the halls of the Capitol.

Many lawmakers have expressed their intention to attend Jackson Lee’s funeral services next week in Texas. This gathering is anticipated to be a poignant remembrance of her formidable presence in U.S. politics.

Conclusion: A Life Devoted to Service

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee's passing has united Congress in grief and respect, with flags flown at half-staff and tributes flowing from both sides of the aisle. Her advocacy for first responders, victims of natural disasters, and underrepresented groups distinguished her nearly thirty-year career.

Her legacy also includes major legislative achievements like the protection of domestic violence victims and the establishment of Juneteenth as a federal holiday. Her upcoming funeral in Texas is expected to draw many from across the nation, coming together to honor a life well lived.