Dallas, TX - Eddie Bernice Johnson, a trailblazing Black woman who served as a prominent Democratic lawmaker representing Dallas for 15 terms, passed away on Sunday at the age of 88, according to her official congressional biography. Johnson's death was confirmed by her son, Dawrence Kirk Johnson Sr., who referred to her as a champion for the people of Texas.

Throughout her long and impactful career, Johnson shattered barriers and paved the way for more women and African Americans to obtain leadership roles in politics and other fields. Born in Waco in the segregated South, she broke numerous barriers to become the first African American to serve as chief psychiatric nurse at Dallas' VA hospital, the first African American from Dallas to serve in the Texas Senate since Reconstruction, the first registered nurse elected to Congress, and the first Black woman to chair the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee.

Johnson's influence extended beyond her district, as she used her clout to address regional needs, such as aiding with Dallas Love Field expansions and major highway projects. Her legacy also includes securing funding for science and technology, including NASA, and playing a crucial role in revitalizing the U.S. semiconductor chip industry.

Her impact on the political landscape was widely recognized, with former U.S. trade representative and former Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk describing her as a friend and mentor. State Sen. Royce West, who replaced Johnson in the Texas Senate, referred to her as a mentor and highlighted her enduring legacy, stating, "Our state and our country and, for that matter, the world are better because of Eddie Bernice Johnson."

Johnson's influence within Washington was equally significant, as she was regarded as a trailblazer and an inimitable public servant. U.S. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries praised her investment in manufacturing jobs and her commitment to providing under-resourced communities with STEM education. Rep. Colin Allred, a Dallas Democrat, recognized Johnson's unwavering dedication to putting Texans first and remarked on the mark she made on the state.

While Johnson's career was not without criticism and controversy, it never dimmed her popularity in southern Dallas, where she consistently secured reelection. Despite facing criticism for allegedly drawing a seat for herself during her 1992 election, Johnson's standing in Washington remained strong, earning her respect from generations of lawmakers and praise from leaders in both parties.

Johnson's impact on North Texas' development, particularly in the realm of infrastructure, cannot be overstated. She was celebrated as the single most effective legislator in Texas' history for bringing infrastructure and resources to the region, leaving an indelible mark on projects such as Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) and flood control improvements along the Trinity River.

When Johnson announced her retirement in 2021, she stated, "I've worked hard. It's not just a title - it's a job. It's been some rugged times, but I have not acknowledged it. I was determined that I wouldn't just be a title. I wanted to deliver." Her retirement marked the end of an illustrious career that had spanned over three decades.

Johnson's contributions were recently recognized when Dallas' Union Station, a once racially segregated facility, was renamed after her in 2019, symbolizing the progress she fought for throughout her life. Additionally, the National Science Foundation named a program after her aimed at promoting diversity in STEM.

The passing of Eddie Bernice Johnson has sparked an outpouring of tributes from friends and public servants she mentored, all of whom acknowledged her groundbreaking achievements and lasting legacy on the political landscape of North Texas. Her dedication to public service and her tireless efforts to empower women and people of color will continue to inspire future generations.