Former U.S. Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, a ‘trailblazer’ from Dallas, dies at 88
Eddie Bernice Johnson, a trailblazer and civil rights leader who served almost three decades in Congress representing Dallas and North Texas, has died at 88.
Johnson’s son, Kirk Johnson, shared the news Sunday in a Facebook post.
“She was a remarkable and loving mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and great grandmother, as well as a trailblazer and public servant, “ the post read.
Johnson, the first Black member of Congress from Dallas and and third Texas woman elected to the U.S. House, won reelection 15 times before retiring last January.
“Throughout her distinguished career, Congresswoman Johnson served with integrity and passion, earning the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle,” the Texas Democratic Party said in a news release Sunday. “In this time of grief, let us remember and honor the legacy of Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, a champion for justice, equality, and the American people.”
Born Dec. 3, 1935 in Waco, Mrs. Johnson attended Southern Methodist University, Texas Christian University, Saint Mary’s College and worked as a nurse prior to her political career.
She was a champion of women’s and minority rights during her tenure.
“The Chairwoman didn’t take passing the torch on lightly, and likewise, I’ve not taken it lightly that she entrusted me to honor her work and legacy,” her successor, U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Dallas, said in a statement. “Everyday that passes is a day that I dedicate to continuing her work and attempting to fill her shoes.”
When Johnson decided to retire, she called Crockett and asked her to run to represent Texas’ 30th congressional district.
“Everywhere you look, Texans can see the mark she made on our state — from improving the VA, to investing in transportation, to fighting for Texans’ civil rights,” U.S. Rep. Colin Allred, a fellow Democrat from Texas, said in a statement. “Eddie Bernice Johnson was a trailblazer, a leader, a friend and my mentor.”
Tarrant County Commissioner Alisa Simmons also spoke on Johnson’s passing, writing in a statement she will always cherish the congratulatory message she received from Johnson after winning her precinct chair.
“I am forever indebted and truly grateful for the path she carved out. I knew what was possible because she had already done it,” Simmons wrote.
Dallas mayor Eric Johnson also released a statement on her passing.
“I had hoped that, after a distinguished three-decade career in the United States Capitol, we would have more time with her back at home,” the statement read. ”Personally and professionally, she touched countless lives, including mine. I am devastated and heartbroken by her passing, and my thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones.”
This story was originally published December 31, 2023 at 2:28 PM.
