Kamala Harris will attend funeral service in Houston for Sheila Jackson Lee.

Vice President Kamala Harris is set to attend the funeral service for her “dear friend,” the late U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas, in Houston later this week. The “Celebration of Life” is scheduled for Thursday at Fallbrook Church, according to Jackson Lee’s office. Other elected officials in the U.S. and abroad are also expected to attend the service, according to Fox 26.

Jackson Lee passed away on July 19 at the age of 74 after battling pancreatic cancer. She is survived by her husband, Elwyn Lee, and her two children, Jason and Erica. Prior to her battle with pancreatic cancer, Jackson Lee had also battled and defeated breast cancer, having been diagnosed in 2011.

The congresswoman had a long and distinguished career, representing Texas’ 18th congressional district for 30 years. Before her time in Congress, Jackson Lee served as a judge and was elected to an at-large Houston City Council seat in 1989. Last year, she ran for Houston mayor but was unsuccessful, opting to seek re-election to Congress instead.

Vice President Kamala Harris paid tribute to Jackson Lee after her passing, referring to her as a “tenacious advocate for justice and a tireless fighter for the people of Houston and the people of America.” Harris also highlighted their long-standing friendship, as they were both members of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

Harris praised Jackson Lee’s leadership and dedication to serving her community, noting her role in championing women’s rights and her contribution to landmark legislation like the Violence Against Women Act. Harris also mentioned Jackson Lee’s efforts in making Juneteenth a national holiday, a cause they both supported.

This will be Vice President Harris’ third visit to Texas in the last month and second since becoming the Democratic Party’s presumptive presidential nominee. During her recent trips to Texas, Harris has been engaging with various communities and addressing important issues, such as hurricane recovery efforts and education.

As Vice President Harris continues to honor the legacy of her dear friend, Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, her commitment to serving the people of Houston and America is evident. Their shared values and dedication to making a positive impact on society serve as a reminder of the importance of strong leadership and advocacy in today’s world.