In Houston, a group of mourners gathered to honor the life and contributions of the late U.S. Representative Sylvester Turner of Texas, as his remains lay in state at the city hall on Tuesday. This tribute is part of a week-long series of public commemorations dedicated to the Democratic lawmaker and former mayor.
Turner, aged 70, passed away on March 5, only weeks into his inaugural term in the House of Representatives, and shortly after attending President Donald Trump’s Congressional address in Washington. His family disclosed that he died at his residence due to health complications.
A memorial service was held at Houston City Hall, where Turner had previously served as mayor for eight years before his election to Congress in November. During the service, Houston Mayor John Whitmire offered brief remarks, emphasizing Turner’s unique ability to connect with diverse communities with a spirit of equality and inclusivity. The Houston Symphony also performed while attendees paid their respects.
“Sylvester had a profound understanding of every community and treated all individuals with fairness and inclusivity,” Whitmire stated. “His commitment to public service and his unifying message resonated throughout our city and state.”
Turner succeeded long-serving Democratic Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, who passed away in July. Before serving as mayor, Turner had an extensive political career in the Texas House of Representatives, spanning 27 years.
The public will have another opportunity to honor Turner as he is scheduled to lie in state at the Texas Capitol beginning on Thursday. His funeral service will take place on Saturday in Houston.
The timeline for a special election to fill Turner’s vacant seat has yet to be announced by Republican Texas Governor Greg Abbott.
