Rep. Sylvester Turner remembered: Reaction to former Houston mayor's death

HOUSTON - Congressman and former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner has died at the age of 70.

U.S. Rep. Turner was elected to Texas' 18th Congressional District in November. He previously served as a Texas state representative for more than two decades and the mayor of Houston for eight years.

What they're saying:

Houston Mayor John Whitmire confirmed Turner's passing during a council meeting on Wednesday morning and remembered him as a "remarkable public servant."

"This comes as a shock to everyone. I'm going to ask Houstonians to come together. Pray for his family. Join us in celebrating this remarkable public servant. Celebrate his life, which we will be doing," Whitmire said.

Here’s how leaders are remembering him.

Turner Family

"It is with inexpressible sadness that we the family of Congressman Sylvester Turner, Representative for the 18th Congressional District of Texas, acknowledge his unexpected passing. 

After attending the State of The Union Address in Washington, D.C. last evening, Congressman Turner was taken to the hospital and he was later released.

On Wednesday, March 5 at approximately 5:45am he died at his home from enduring health complications. The Turner family is requesting fervent prayers from all who knew and loved him. We also request the public’s respect for our family's privacy as we process this difficult reality.

Official communication will come from his staff at the appropriate time. Congressman Turner was the consummate public servant. But to us, he was our beloved father, grandfather, sibling, and relative. Thank you for your prayers.

More information regarding services will be forthcoming."

Texas Governor Greg Abbott

"Cecilia and I are saddened to hear of the passing of Congressman Sylvester Turner. Congressman Turner was a man of character who served his fellow Texans for more than 36 years. From his time as State Representative, to Mayor of Houston, and finally representing Texas' 18th Congressional District, Congressman Turner leaves behind a legacy of service to our great state. Congressman Turner will be missed, and our prayers go out to his family and loved ones during this time of grief."

Houston Mayor John Whitmire

During a council meeting on Wednesday morning, Mayor Whitmire said, "Not many people know how close Sylvester and I was. I was in the Senate 40 years. He was a state representative in my district for 24. No one's introduced me more in public than Sylvester Turner. No one introduced him more in public than John Whitmire. We've been together in good times and bad times. He asked me to speak at his mother's funeral. I was there when Ashley was born. He was there when Whitney and Sarah were born. As recently as two weeks ago, we were together as friends, as public servants, installing F.N. Williams II in Acres Home, week ago Sunday. We made sure that we were both in the same picture with the family. We had tremendous influence on each other as we were young elected officials. He and I both loved Houston, we loved Texas and this great country. It is a personal loss for me. And the reason no one knows how close we are is the mean politics of our system. We never took our disagreements personally. Man, I'd run over to the house because he was such a good state representative, and he was always on the conference committee. That's five individuals out of the House that write the final version of the state budget, $180 billion. And I was the longest-serving senator, but I needed some items in the budget, and I knew where to go, and it was usually accomplished. So I've lost a personal friend, advisor. And we've lost an outstanding public official. Experience matters folks. No one will be able to step into Sylvester's shoes and carry on his duties, because there's only one Sylvester Turner."

Mayor Whitmire then released the following statement:

 "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. 

"Sylvester and I shared a history that went beyond politics. We served together in the Texas Legislature, and he was my state representative for 24 years. We were together in good times and bad times. Over the years, we attended countless community meetings, church services, and other events. No one has introduced me at public events more than Turner. He asked me to speak at his mother's funeral, and I was there when Ashley was born, just as he was there when my daughters, Whitney and Sarah, were born. 

"This past Saturday, we were both at the Rodeo Houston parade and, two weeks ago, at a church in Acres Homes, where we both spoke and took a picture with the pastor's family. That's who he was—always present, always connected to the community he loved. "Sylvester Turner was the proud son of Acres Home and graduated from Klein High School, the University of Houston, and Harvard Law. He rose from humble beginnings to meet with presidents, kings, and queens, yet he never forgot where he came from. 

"We didn't always agree politically, but we never took things personally. I've lost a friend, and our community has lost a true public servant. There will never be another Sylvester Turner. He was a dedicated public servant until the end. 

"I hope that, in his memory, we all come together and remember that what unites us is far greater than what divides us."

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo shared some remarks and memories following the death of Rep. Turner.

"On a personal note, I will miss him. He's somebody that I really loved and got to know well and worked with very well. And on a more official note, on behalf of the residents of Harris County, my deepest condolences to his family in particular, to his constituents and especially the folks in the 18th Congressional District. They've been through a lot. Harris County is still here, and we'll be watching out for anything they need in the meantime."

The judge later released a statement including the following:

"Our community has lost an irreplaceable leader. I am devastated and shocked by the passing of Congressman Sylvester Turner, who was my governing partner and friend. …. On behalf of Harris County, I offer my condolences to his family and friends, all those he represented throughout his career, and the residents of the 18th Congressional District."

Texas Lieutenant Governor 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."

Office of Rep. Turner

"It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Congressman Sylvester Turner, who died peacefully today at the age of 70. … Throughout his career, he was known for his bipartisan leadership, dedication to his constituents, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of all Houstonians. … Details regarding memorial services will be announced in the coming days. The family is asking for privacy during this difficult time.."

Houston City Controller Chris Hollins

"I am deeply saddened by the passing of Sylvester Turner. He was more than a Congressman or Mayor, more than any political title could capture — he was a dear friend, a mentor, and a relentless champion for the people he served selflessly for over three decades. My heartfelt condolences go out to his daughter Ashley, his family, and his many friends.

When Hurricane Harvey devastated Houston and the surrounding region in 2017, Mayor Turner rose to the occasion, leading with unwavering strength and compassion. But his commitment didn’t end when the floodwaters receded — he worked tirelessly to rebuild our city, ensuring it was better prepared for future challenges. 

Before his tenure as mayor, he served in the Texas House of Representatives from 1989 to 2016. He was a fierce advocate for public education, expanded healthcare access, and stronger consumer protections — always prioritizing those in need.

Even in tumultuous times for our nation, he remained dedicated to serving the people of the 18th Congressional District with unmatched enthusiasm. In his final hours, he fought for what mattered most, speaking out about the importance of preserving healthcare access for Texas families.

For years, I had the privilege of turning to Sylvester Turner for guidance — on issues both large and small. Like a true friend, he listened and offered earnest encouragement, all while leading and living by example.

Now, it is incumbent upon all of us to carry forward the wisdom and spirit he so generously shared.

I will miss him dearly and wish him a peaceful rest."

Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis

"My sincere condolences to Ashley and the Turner family. Houston mourns the loss of our servant leader, proud native son, dedicated father and dear friend.

Thank you, Sylvester Turner for all you gave of yourself to serve Houston, Texas, and this nation. We the People are all better off because you chose to dedicate yourself to a life of public service. You also advanced the continuous struggle to make this nation as good as its promise of freedom and justice for all. "

Harris County Commissioner Adrian Garcia

"The loss of Sylvester Turner leaves an incredible hole in my heart. Despite previously having been opponents, Mayor Turner and I put bygones aside and developed a tremendous partnership between the City of Houston and Harris County that remains today. He gave his life to working for the people of Houston, from his decades in the Texas House, to his two terms as Mayor, and finally as a Congressman. I’m thankful to Mayor/Representative Turner for his many years of public service. Houston is a better home to all of us because of his many years of dedication to serving the people. My heart, thoughts, and prayers go out to his family and all those who loved him."

Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez

"Sylvester Turner carried Houston in his DNA with grit, courageous optimism, and the heart of a fighter. Today, Houston mourns the passing of a cherished native son who showed all of us in public service how to build a legacy of unity and shared prosperity that will endure as long as we follow Sylvester’s commitment to serving all the people all the time with all our heart. Rest in peace, my good friend."

Former Houston Fire Chief Samuel Peña

"Saddened by the passing of my friend and former boss @SylvesterTurner. My sincere condolences to his daughter and grandson. Rest in peace, Mr. Mayor!"

Former Houston Chief of Police Art Acevedo

"Sad start to the day. I will always cherish the time serving alongside Mayor Turner during some very challenging events, from a Super Bowl to Hurricane Harvey, to Ice Storms, two World Series, and more. My prayers go out to Ashley and extended Turner family. Rest in peace, Mayor."

Texas Southern University

"We mourn the passing of Sylvester Turner, a devoted advocate for our community and a steadfast supporter of Texas Southern University. His legacy of service, leadership, and advocacy will forever remain. Rest in Power, Sylvester Turner."

Houston Astros

"The Houston Astros join the rest of the Houston Community and beyond in mourning the passing of Congressman and former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner.

Born and raised in Houston, Sylvester dedicated his life to making his city a better place to live. As Mayor, he was a friend and strong supporter of the Houston Astros as well as all of our sports teams. It is fitting that the Astros Youth Academy is proudly located in Sylvester Turner Park. He may no longer be with us, but his legacy and great contributions to the City of Houston will never be forgotten. Our sincere condolences to all of his loved ones."

Houston District C Councilwoman Abbie Kamin

I’m still trying to find the right words. But one thing was clear as I looked at Houston’s skyline today—a view he loved—this extraordinary man gave his life to our city and to our nation. To my dear friend, mentor, and Congressman-we will carry the torch.

Harris County Democratic Party

"The Harris County Democratic Party joins Harris County in mourning the passing of Congressman and former Mayor Sylvester Turner, statesman, father, and grandfather, who passed away over night…. He leaves a legacy of compassion, dedication, and tireless leadership for the people of Harris County. Our thoughts this morning are with his family."

Fort Bend County Commissioner Dexter McCoy

"I am heartbroken to learn about the death of our community’s champion, Congressman Sylvester Turner.
Houston’s forever Mayor, Congressman Turner showed up to work every day with the children of our region on his mind. He showed kids like me that we can achieve more than we could dream. If a black kid from Acres Homes could go on to be mayor of the fourth largest city in America and a member of Congress, so could we.
Today, many of us have also lost a mentor and friend. If you were a young black elected official in the Houston area, you inevitably came to know him as a mentor who always made himself available when you needed his guidance or support. When starting the African American Memorial Conservancy, I called Congressman Turner for guidance, as he had gone through the same process in forming the Emancipation Park Conservancy years ago. He gave great advice on how to get started and avoid some of the pitfalls he’d experienced. True to form, he didn’t hesitate when asked to join the advisory committee, even though he was about to step foot into congress himself.
His sage advice from decades of public service has helped guide me as I have started my career as an elected official just as I know it has guided countless other leaders in our community. Above all else that will be dearly missed.
As I visited his office at the US Capitol this week, the sense of purpose was just as alive there as I knew it to be in every other office he occupied.
To his daughter Ashley, his entire family, friends, staff, and all those who join me in feeling this loss, I express my deepest condolences. We must now be the light for others that he was for each of us."

Texas State Rep. Jon Rosenthal

"I'm incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of  @SylvesterTurner last night.  He was a dear friend and an incredible lifelong public servant who will be forever remembered for his service to our communities , our city, our state and our Country. RIP Mr Mayor."

Texas Rep. Gene Wu

"I am devastated. Sylvester was more than just a colleague to me — he was my advisor, my mentor, and my personal hero. When I started, not even as a Legislator, as a staffer in ’05, there were only two names I knew before working here: Senfronia Thompson and Sylvester Turner. They were people who were outspoken for fighting for their communities and defending the poor and the working class, and anybody who got stepped on.To Ashley and his family, thank you so much for sharing such an amazing person with us. Thank you for everything you have sacrificed and given.To Sylvester, you are my brother and I will always love you. Rest in power, my friend."

U.S. Rep. Terri A. Sewell

"I’m saddened to hear of the passing of my colleague, Congressman Sylvester Turner. He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of service as Mayor of Houston and the Representative for Texas' 18th Congressional District. May he Rest in Peace."

Harris County Pct. 4 Constable's Office

"The men and women of Constable Mark Herman’s Office send our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Former Houston Mayor and current U.S. Representative Sylvester Turner who has passed at the age of 70.U.S. Rep. Turner was elected to Texas' 18th Congressional District in November. While Mayor, Sylvester Turner, worked hand in hand with Constable Herman keeping the citizens in Kingwood safe! Rest in Peace Sir."

Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson

"Today, we mourn the loss of a lifelong public servant, a towering figure in Texas politics, and a good friend of mine — Congressman and former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner.
"Congressman Turner served with great distinction for more than 25 years in the Texas House of Representatives, where I had the privilege of serving alongside him for six years. He then led the city of Houston as mayor for eight years before most recently representing the people of Texas in Congress.
"Throughout his career, Turner was a relentless advocate for the people he served. His remarkable legacy leaves an indelible mark on the great state of Texas.
"I am truly heartbroken by his passing, and my prayers are with his family during this time."

U.S. Congressman Craig Goldman

".⁦@SylvesterTurner⁩ wasn’t just a tremendous State Rep, Mayor and Congressman, he was a tremendous friend. He was passionate, extremely smart and respected by all who knew and worked with him. Texas lost a legend today."

Houston Police Officers' Union

"The Houston Police Officers’ Union mourns the loss of Congressman Sylvester Turner, a steadfast advocate for our city and former mayor of Houston. His unwavering commitment to public service and dedication to improving the lives of Houstonians will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time."

Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin

"Congressman Sylvester Turner was a lion for the city of Houston – born and raised in the Acres Homes community, attending school at the University of Houston, and spending his entire life in public service devoted to making the lives of Houstonites better. I first got to know Sylvester Turner when Houston was being considered for the 2020 Democratic Convention. A tireless champion for Houston and its people, Sylvester was the epitome of a gracious host and a practical leader of a great American city. His decades of service—from the halls of the Legislature to serving as Mayor during Houston’s greatest time of need to, most recently, serving Houstonites in our nation’s Capitol—leave behind a legacy of leadership, advocacy, and dedication to his community and to our country. His lifetime of strong and thoughtful leadership, a passion to serve others, and an undying love for Houston, for Texas, and our democracy will live with us forever. He will be deeply missed, but always remembered."

BikeHouston Executive Director Joe Cutrufo

"Today, on behalf of everyone at BikeHouston, we join our fellow Houstonians in mourning the loss of Congressman and former Mayor Sylvester Turner.
As mayor, Sylvester Turner presided over a remarkable period in which miles upon miles of Houston streets were reimagined to prioritize safety over speed, a bold act for any American mayor, but especially for the mayor of an historically car-dependent city with deep ties to the petroleum industry.
Turner didn't come to office with a deep background in transportation, so he relied on an expert team of city planners and traffic engineers to steer Houston toward a safer, more inclusive transportation future. Shortly after taking office in 2016, he set in motion a "transportation paradigm shift" — a term coined by late Planning Director Patrick Walsh — which considered the needs of not just drivers, but of all Houstonians, a novel concept at the time. In 2017, the City Council unanimously adopted the Houston Bike Plan, an ambitious blueprint to connect neighborhoods across the Bayou City with a network of safe bikeways. Later that year, Houston was named a Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community™ by the League of American Bicyclists. 

"After a series of gruesome and preventable traffic crashes in 2018, Turner responded to demands from advocates by launching an initiative which identified the city’s most deadly intersections, and mobilized transportation safety experts from the Federal Highway Administration, Houston Public Works, Houston Police Department, METRO, Planning & Development, BikeHouston, LINK Houston, and TxDOT to identify proven safety countermeasures. Houston Public Works implemented the recommended countermeasures in the following year.

"Turner doubled down on street safety in his second term, recruiting nationally-renowned transportation professionals like multimodal planner David Fields as Planning & Development's first-ever director of transportation planning, and engineer Veronica Davis as Public Works’ director of transportation and drainage operations. In 2020, Turner announced the City of Houston's intention to eliminate traffic deaths by 2030 with the release of the Vision Zero Action Plan. Knowing the municipal budget alone can never fund the infrastructure necessary to achieve this goal, Turner marshaled the resources of tax increment reinvestment zones, and partnered with allies at Harris County and in Washington D.C., to secure millions of dollars to reimagine and improve our most dangerous thoroughfares.

"As mayor, Sylvester Turner achieved what many politicians can only dream of: he delivered tangible, meaningful improvements to people's lives, including 150 miles of new bikeways. Thanks to his leadership, Houstonians have real options in how we get around our city. But perhaps more important than any single infrastructure improvement, Turner's most profound accomplishment as mayor was establishing a political environment where safe streets were not just possible, but paramount. Sylvester Turner raised the bar for how Houstonians think about getting around our city, and during his time as mayor, he showed us all what Houston is capable of building when its leaders listen to the people."

Lone Star College

"Lone Star College System extends its deepest condolences to U.S. Congressman Sylvester Turner’s family and friends for his untimely passing. Congressman Turner served as a long-time Texas House of Representative member, City of Houston Mayor and recent U.S. Congressman. Congressman Turner focused his public service on ensuring communities had access to critical services, including health care and mental health services, public education, public service and transportation. Congressman Turner’s public service also extended to the Lone Star College System. We are grateful to Congressman Turner for his partnership over the years, which includes helping the college system recover from Hurricane Harvey, the opening of LSC-Houston North and supporting academic and workforce programs. We thank him for the example he set as a public servant and will work hard to follow in his legacy of community service."

Cyrus Sajna

"Today America has had a great loss. Rep. Sylvester Turner was a pioneer, a visionary and a true leader. We share a vision for district 18, similar to the vision of Dr. King. They both believed that economic empowerment and safety are critical elements to a thriving community. It is my goal to uphold the values of Rep. Sylvester Turner in District 18 if elected."

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