PRESS RELEASE
"Our community has lost a true public servant."
Mayor Whitmire's Statement on the Death of Congressman Sylvester Turner
This morning, Mayor John Whitmire addressed the death of Congressman and former Mayor Sylvester Turner during the Houston City Council meeting.
March 5, 2025 -- Please attribute the following to 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.
"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."