HOUSTON — This week, U.S. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee will be honored and remembered in Houston. Flags at Houston City Hall and municipal buildings will be flown at half-staff from Monday, July 29, through Thursday, Aug. 1 to honor Jackson Lee.
President Joe Biden came to Houston on Monday to pay his respects. Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to come back to Houston on Wednesday, July 31. On Thursday, Aug. 1, Harris will deliver a eulogy at Rep. Jackson Lee’s service.
Below is a rundown of what to expect over the next four days and how you can pay your respects.
Monday, July 29: Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee lies in state
Jackson Lee lied in state in City Hall on Monday, July 29, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. The public was allowed to pay their final respects and sign a book of condolence following a brief prayer service with Jackson Lee's family, city leaders and faith leaders.
Before the public was invited in, Houston Mayor John Whitmire, the late Congresswoman's family and Houston faith leaders had a program outside. You can see that below.
Tuesday, July 30: Viewing and remembrance
A viewing and remembrance will take place on Tuesday at God’s Grace Community Church at 9944 West Montgomery Road from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m.
Wednesday, July 31: Viewing and service
Viewing at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church at 3826 Wheeler Avenue from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m., followed by a Community Farewell and Appreciation service from 3 p.m. until 8 p.m.
Thursday, August 1: Celebration of Life service
Celebration of Life Service at 11 a.m. at Fallbrook Church at 12512 Walters Road in Houston. Pre-registration is required.
About Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee
Jackson Lee died Friday, July 19, two months after announcing she had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
Known by her constituents as simply, "Congresswoman," Jackson Lee served the public for more than 30 years. 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.
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.