Leaders Heartbroken by Sudden Death of Congressman Turner

By Joseph Green-Bishop
Arise Rejoice News Service

Public leaders throughout the state of Texas say that they are in disbelief and heartbroken by the sudden passing of Congressman  Sylvester Turner of Houston.
Congressman Turner, who served the people of Houston as their mayor between, 2016 and 2024, expired after becoming ill on Capitol Hill late Tuesday evening.
He was rushed to an area hospital, treated and released and died later at home, according to his daughter,  Ashley.

Congressman Turner, who succeeded the late congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee, was a leader and legislative innovator in the Texas House of Representatives prior to becoming mayor. He championed issues such as healthcare, affordable housing and environmental justice.
“Sylvester Turner was in a class all by himself – a gift from God, a man of great faith, brilliance and unparalleled dedication. He touched so many lives through his leadership as mayor of Houston and his service in the Texas House of Representatives,” said former state representative Helen Giddings, when asked to comment on the congressman’s passing. “But beyond his public achievements he was the best friend I could ever hope for.  His caring heart, wisdom and unwavering commitment to others will forever remain in my heart. He was a true inspiration and his legacy will continue to guide and inspire us.”

Lee Brown served as Houston’s Mayor prior to Turner.  “Houston was blessed to have Sylvester Turner as its mayor,” said Brown. “He gave 100% of his blood, sweat and tears to the people of the city where he was born and raised and where he practiced law.” 

“Congressman Turner was a powerful voice of truth and moral consciousness in the Texas House,” said former state representative Carl Sherman. “His speeches in Austin were always filled with relevance, reason and religious undertones. His fellow legislators paused and listened intently when he spoke.”

Others shared their expressions:

“Sylvester Turner was known as the conscience of the Texas House, bringing moral clarity and a deep commitment to his community back home in Houston to every debate and policy discussion” said Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Rep. Gene Wu. “Rep. Turner’s legacy of fighting for affordable housing, disaster recovery, and criminal justice reform continues to inspire and guide our caucus today. The wisdom, integrity, and strategic vision he brought to public service will continue to inspire generations of Texans committed to building a more just and equitable state.”

Houston Mayor John Whitmire

“I was saddened to learn of the death of Congressman and former Mayor Sylvester Turner. My condolences go out to his daughter, Ashley, and his entire family during this difficult time. I ask Houstonians to keep Rep. Turner’s family in your thoughts and prayers. The flags on City of Houston buildings have been lowered to half-staff, and City Hall will be illuminated tonight in red, white, and blue in his honor. Later, I will announce how the city plans to celebrate Congressman Turner’s remarkable life of public service.
 

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick  

“This morning, Jan and I were saddened to hear the news of Congressman and former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner’s passing. Please join us in prayer for Congressman Turner’s family, friends, and the entire city of Houston.”

Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa

“Sylvester Turner was Houston through and through. He was a fighter whose unwavering advocacy guided decades of service to the great state of Texas. He was a fighter for the vulnerable and always a champion for Houston. Today we honor Congressman Turner’s legacy and the advocacy that he embodied each day. May he rest in peace.”

Texas Democratic Party Treasurer Odus E. Evbagharu 

“It is with a heavy heart that I reflect on the passing of my dear friend and a mentor, Congressman Sylvester Turner. Sylvester embodied the spirit of Houston – resilient, compassionate, and unwavering in the face of challenges like Hurricane Harvey and the COVID-19 pandemic. As both a leader and a symbol of our city’s strength, he guided Houston through some of its darkest hours with unmatched determination. His legacy will forever be etched in the fabric of our community.