TEXAS REP. SYLVESTER TURNER DEATH: FORMER HOUSTON MAYOR DIES AT 70, LEAVING BEHIND A LEGACY OF PUBLIC SERVICE, EQUITY, AND JUSTICE
The city of Houston and the nation are mourning the sudden loss of U.S. Congressman Sylvester Turner, who passed away on March 5, 2025, at the age of 70. Turner’s death comes just two months after being sworn into Congress, representing Texas’s 18th congressional district.
_A Life of Resilience and Dedication_
Born and raised in Houston’s Acres Homes neighborhood, Turner rose from humble beginnings to become one of the city’s most influential leaders. A Harvard Law School graduate, Turner began his career as a trial lawyer before co-founding his own law firm. He served 27 years in the Texas House of Representatives, where he became a bipartisan leader and played a key role in shaping the state’s fiscal policy.¹
_Turner’s Tenure as Mayor_
In 2015, Turner was elected Houston’s 62nd mayor, a role he held for two terms. His tenure was marked by both triumphs and challenges. He guided the city through Hurricane Harvey, one of the most devastating natural disasters in U.S. history, and led Houston through the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his leadership, the city also celebrated two World Series wins, moments of unity and joy for Houstonians.
_A Champion for Equity and Justice_
Turner was a champion for equity and justice, advocating for underserved communities and launching initiatives like Hire Houston Youth, which provided thousands of jobs to young adults. He was also a leader in environmental sustainability, spearheading Houston’s first Climate Action Plan and positioning the city as a global leader in climate policy.
_A Personal Legacy_
Turner’s legacy is deeply personal for many Houstonians. He was a man who stayed true to his roots, never forgetting the community that raised him. As one local journalist shared, “He always saw us, supported us, and stayed the same round-the-way man from the 4-4 (Acres Homes) to the end.” His authenticity and dedication made him not just a leader, but family to many.
_Turner’s Passing and Tributes_
Turner’s passing leaves a void in Houston and beyond. He is survived by his daughter Ashley, son-in-law, and a new grandson, whom he adored. Tributes have poured in from across the city, with many remembering Turner as a friend, mentor, and source of inspiration.
As the city mourns the loss of this remarkable leader, his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate future generations of public servants, community leaders, and everyday citizens. Sylvester Turner’s impact on the city of Houston and beyond will never be forgotten.
