Photo: Jemal Countess / Getty Images Entertainment / Getty Images
Houston area Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee has died after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
"Today, with deep grief for our loss yet deep gratitude for the life she shared with us, we announce the passing of United States Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of the 18th Congressional District of Texas," her office said in a statement.
Jackson Lee, who has been representing Texas' 18th congressional district for 30 years, announced last month she had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
She had previously battled breast cancer and had been declared cancer free in 2011.
Congresswoman Jackson Lee was 74 years old. Funeral arrangements are pending.