Founder of Pakistan Caucus in US Congress, Sheila Jackson Lee, passes away

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a member of the US Congress and chairperson of the Pakistan Caucus, died on Friday at the age of 74. 

Her office announced her passing, stating, "Today, with incredible grief and deep gratitude for her life, we speak to the 18th Congressional Desk of Texas, United States of America, to announce the death of Sheila Jackson Lee."

Sheila was a strong supporter of the Pakistani community and had visited the country several times, ensuring assistance and cooperation at the US government level. 

She was also a champion of social justice and civil rights, and her passing has left a significant void in the lives of many.

Sheila was more than just a Congresswoman; her constituents will miss her omnipresent figure, who has been a constant presence in their lives for the past 30 years. Her legacy will take a long time to match.

Her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer was revealed earlier this month, and despite her illness, she continued to work tirelessly until her last days. Her legacy will live on through her contributions to the US Congress and her advocacy for the Pakistani community.

She is survived by her husband, Alvin Lee, and their two children. 

Just over a week ago, Sheila, despite her illness, continued to work on behalf of her constituents, including representing Centerpoint customers in a US court investigation.

Condolences

Pakistan Consulate General Houston issued a statement on X, saying that the country lost a remarkable friend.

"It is with great sadness that we learnt of the passing of Congresswoman [Sheila Jackson Lee]. Pakistani-American community in Houston lost a remarkable friend. As a fierce fighter, she worked tirelessly for the people. We share the grief of the family. RIP," it said.

President of Houston-Karachi Sister City, Saeed Sheikh, Dr Yaqoob Sheikh of APPNA, and officials of various Pakistani organisations, as well as socio-political and literary circles, have also issued condolence messages. 

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also offered his condolences, saying that Sheila was a champion of stronger relations between Pakistan and the US.

"Sheila Jackson's services will be remembered for years to come," said the premier. 

Former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Fawad Chaudhry offered his condolences over Sheila's death.

He said: "Truly saddened by the passing of United States Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of the 18th Congressional District of Texas after a battle with cancer, she was founder and Co-Chairman of Pakistan caucus, Pakistan and people of Kashmir lost a great friend in USA Congress."