The late 74-year-old Sheila Jackson Lee passed away after losing an intrepid battle against pancreatic cancer. She was a strong fighter and a well-respected public servant.
She served Texas’ 18th Congressional District for almost three decades with dedication and enthusiasm.
Her work was a beacon of hope for social justice, racial equality, LGBTQ rights, and compassionate immigration reform.
Sheila works so hard and puts all her attention on this burning issue, leaving no less inspired individuals and communities.
Her absence will be felt sorely, and the echo of her work will continue throughout the ages.
She is survived by a beloved husband, two children, and a family who helped support her in the relentless fight for a more just and fair society.
As we remember Sheila Jackson Lee, we honor a life devoted to the service of others and the relentless pursuit of equality for all.
Who Is Elwyn Lee, the Husband of Sheila Jackson Lee?
Elwyn Cornelius Lee is a Distinguished Professor of Law at the University of Houston and has been married to Sheila Jackson Lee since 1973.
Born in 1949 in Virginia, Sheila’s husband grew up in Houston’s historic Third Ward, an influential African American neighborhood.
His academic journey led him to earn a degree in law from Yale University and the University of Virginia.
While at college, Elwyn found Sheila Jackson Lee and the two hit it off immediately.
He later accepted a position at the University of Houston in Texas.
Elwyn, at the time, served as the first tenured African American at the University of Houston Law School.
Besides his academic roles, Elwyn was once the Vice President for Community Relations and Institutional Access at the University of Houston.
Further, Sheila’s beau was committed to student and community relations, so he coordinated the African American Studies program over several years.
Now 75, Elwyn continues to influence not only the university but the Houston community through his generous service and leadership.
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Meet Sheila Jackson Lee’s 2 Children And Grandkids
Sheila Jackson Lee is a consistent public servant and stands as an equally proud mother and grandmother.
Her two children have followed remarkable paths of study and professionalism.
Sheila has a son, Jason Lee, who is a graduate of Harvard University; he made something from his life.
On that note, Sheila’s daughter, Erica Lee, is also a graduate of Duke University. In addition, she serves on the Harris County School Board in Houston, Texas.
Furthermore, Erica is the mother of two: a boy and a girl—with her husband, Dr. Roy Carter.
So, Sheila Jackson Lee was the loving grandmother of two grandsons, apart from being a successful mother of very good children.
Her granddaughter Ellison Bennett Carter and her grandson Roy Lee Carter III bring joy and pride to the family.
Recently, Sheila shared some glimpses of family life on her Instagram account.
There was no doubt her family bonds were close.
In specific terms, Sheila took to social media to post heartfelt Father’s Day wishes for her husband and son-in-law.
These personal moments show us that her relationships with her children and grandchildren are indeed affectionate and warm.