The historic Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in Houston’s Third Ward gathered to pay tribute to Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee’s life and legacy. The somber yet celebratory event brought together a cross-section of Houstonians, each with fond memories of the iconic leader who dedicated nearly three decades to serving her constituents. As tributes poured in, it became evident that the void left by her passing would be deeply felt across the city.
She was often described as a tireless advocate and fierce champion for the underrepresented and was remembered through poignant stories and heartfelt reflections. Her legacy of unwavering commitment to social justice, education, and community empowerment was a recurring theme throughout the afternoon.
Regina Sauls is a resident of the 18th congressional district where Lee represented. Like many across the city, she recalled the time during Hurricane Beryl when she lost electricity. Sauls was on particular health medications that eventually had to be thrown away, which created complications. She called Lee’s office for assistance, and within two days, she received the necessary resources.
“She treats you like family, and that’s her expectation of those who work for her in her absence. It’s always very personal for her. Even through her sickness, she had love and compassion for her constituents,” she said. “I haven’t been able to sleep since her passing. You can’t find anyone who can fill her shoes, and I pray that someone can pick that torch and carry her legacy of service forward.”
Many in attendance shared personal stories that illustrated Jackson Lee’s hands-on approach to leadership. Roberta Burrough, an urban planner, recalled how the congresswoman contacted her to ask if she’d be interested in participating in a bus tour of neighborhoods in her district like Acres Homes and Sunnyside. She agreed to do the bus tour, and Lee brought the Deputy Assistant Secretary of HUD [Home and Urban Development] to discuss how they could fund some of the projects.
“One of the things we looked at was the old city hall in Independence Height, which used to be a city within itself. We were trying to figure out how to preserve that building. That’s an ongoing project,” she said. I was so excited about all the initiatives she was considering in the Black community. Sheila was such a visionary. She was a foot soldier for the community.”
Burrough said that, as a Third Ward native, there is a major gap between her loss and her loss.
“I used to say. I think she’s a triplet because she was everywhere. You can count on her to be anywhere you needed her to be. Her shoes are too large to fill.”
Mary Ruffin is another Houston resident inspired by Lee’s service in political office, so much so that she volunteers her time at the voting polls to encourage Black people in the community to vote. Ruffin would run into Lee, and she would make sure that the volunteers were cared for.
“She would bring us some cold water, and if she couldn’t, she would make sure she called on someone to help ensure we were hydrated during those long hours,” Ruffin said. When Hurricane Beryl came through, and I didn’t see Sheila, I knew something was wrong because she would always find a way to be helpful and resourceful through tough times and natural disasters.
Wolde Beayna is an Ethiopian Orthodox Church member who came to pay his respects to Lee, who has assisted in the church’s development.
“I’ve been in this country for about 17 years. I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with her, and I’m so happy about how welcoming she is to African immigrants in the community.”
Nneka Achapu, founder of the African Public Affairs Committee, shared the same sentiment. She said that what sets Lee apart was how much she cared about Africa and its development of the continent and its people.
“She had a soft spot for us. She was a champion for us, especially in the Nigerian community,” Achapu said. “It’s still difficult to come to terms with her passing, but I know her spirit is everywhere, and we will continue to uplift our people just as she has done.”
