Vice President Kamala Harris will attend the funeral of Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee at Fallbrook Church in Houston on Saturday, honoring her 'dear friend' and long-time partner in legislative efforts.

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, who recently passed away at the age of 74 due to pancreatic cancer, served Texas' 18th congressional district for three decades and was instrumental in significant legislative achievements, including the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act and the designation of Juneteenth as a federal holiday. As a prominent member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, her legacy as a tenacious advocate for justice will be underscored by the attendance of Vice President Harris, who has closely collaborated with her on key initiatives and considers her a dear friend. This visit marks Harris' third trip to Texas in the past month, reflecting the high regard in which she holds Jackson Lee's contributions to public service and civil rights.

Sheila Jackson Lee's funeral is to be held at Fallbrook Church in Houston, a significant venue for the local community that Jackson Lee represented fervently for 30 years. Her death on July 19 at age 74 followed a courageous fight against pancreatic cancer, leaving behind a notable legacy in Congress and a gap in advocacy for justice and equality.

As a dedicated member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.—the nation's first historically Black sorority—Jackson Lee consistently championed issues concerning civil rights and social justice. Through her membership in this organization, she fostered a network of support and collaboration that was pivotal in her career.

Before making her mark in Congress, Sheila Jackson Lee served as a judge and was a member of the Houston City Council. Her career in public service has been long and storied, marked by continual efforts to uplift her community and pursue legislative advancements.

In addition to her significant tenure in the House of Representatives, Jackson Lee also sought to expand her influence locally by running for Houston mayor last year. Although her campaign was not successful, it highlighted her commitment to serving her community at multiple governmental levels.

Jackson Lee is survived by her husband, Elwyn Lee, and her two children, Jason and Erica. Her family, friends, colleagues, and constituents mourn the loss of a woman known for her relentlessness and passion for justice.

Vice President Kamala Harris, who has worked closely with Jackson Lee on pivotal legislation, characterized her as a 'dear friend' and 'tenacious advocate for justice.' Among their joint efforts were the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act and the push to recognize Juneteenth as a federal holiday, both landmark achievements in the realm of civil rights and protection against gender-based violence.

Harris' upcoming attendance at the funeral epitomizes the profound respect and admiration she holds for Jackson Lee. This will be her third visit to Texas in the past month. Earlier, she inspected Houston's Emergency Operations Center and delivered a speech at the American Federation of Teachers' national convention. Additionally, she attended an Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. convention in Dallas, further emphasizing her deep connection with the organization's members and her continued support for civic leadership and advocacy.

The scheduled funeral service provides an occasion for colleagues, friends, and supporters to honor and remember the life and contributions of Sheila Jackson Lee. Her achievements and unwavering commitment to her constituents underscore a career dedicated to public service and social justice.

Sheila Jackson Lee's life's work extends beyond her immediate legislative accomplishments; it is a testament to her resilience and unwavering dedication to making systemic changes. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations to pursue justice and equality with the same vigor and determination she exhibited over her decades-long career.