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The late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee will be honored by lying in state at the Houston City Hall rotunda on Monday, July 29, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mayor John Whitmire will welcome her family, faith leaders, dignitaries, and the public as they pay tribute to the representative of the 18th Congressional District who passed away on July 19, 2024.
A brief prayer service led by Mayor Whitmire and faith leaders selected by the family will take place on the east steps of Houston City Hall. Attendees are encouraged to use rideshare or public transportation due to limited parking availability. Free street and garage parking will be provided near city hall.
Governor Abbott has granted permission for flags at City Hall and municipal buildings to be flown at half-staff starting Monday, July 29, until Thursday, August 1, when a Celebration of Life Service titled "Remembering Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee" will be held at Fallbrook Church.
Media access to the rotunda is restricted to pool representatives due to space constraints. The ceremony on the steps of City Hall is open to the press. HTV, Houston's Municipal Channel, will serve as the pool camera with KHOU Channel 11 transmitting video footage to partner stations. The Houston Chronicle is responsible for photography coverage; requests for images can be made via email.
This honor marks only the second time an individual has lain in state at Houston City Hall. In 2008, Dr. Michael DeBakey was similarly honored following his passing.
Mayor Whitmire expressed his condolences: "I extend my heartfelt condolences to Congresswoman Jackson Lee's family, staff, and friends. This is a time for unity across Houston as we honor her life and legacy." He noted their shared history despite being recent political opponents: "Although we were opponents in the recent mayoral race, we shared a long history of collaboration spanning over 30 years."
Congresswoman Jackson Lee's political career began as a Municipal Court Judge in Houston before she served on the city council and was elected to represent Texas' 18th Congressional District in 1994. She was known as an influential advocate for her constituents both locally and nationally.
"For decades, Congresswoman Jackson Lee was a dedicated fighter for Houstonians," said Mayor Whitmire. "I invite everyone to visit City Hall to pay tribute to this true public servant and honor her unwavering commitment to our community."