by On March 5, 2025, Sylvester Turner, a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and son of Acres Home, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of service and leadership. From his early years in Texas to his tenure as a Texas State Representative, Mayor of Houston, and U.S. Representative for the 18th Congressional District, he dedicated his life to uplifting his community.
Even in his final moments, Sylvester remained committed to his calling. On the evening of his passing, he attended a joint session of Congress and shared a heartfelt message urging Americans to protect society’s most vulnerable. His final words, “Don’t mess with Medicaid,” captured his lifelong fight for equity and fairness. He later passed away at home due to health complications.
A Life of Dedication
Born on September 27, 1954, in Acres Home, Texas, Sylvester grew up in a two-bedroom house with eight siblings. After losing his father to cancer at 13, he was guided by the wisdom of his mother, whom he called the CEO of their home. Her words—”Work hard, and tomorrow will be better than today”—shaped his determination and work ethic.
Sylvester graduated as valedictorian from Klein High School in 1973 as a standout student. He earned a B.A. in political science from the University of Houston and later obtained his J.D. from Harvard Law School in 1980. In 1983, he co-founded the law firm Barnes & Turner.
Public Service and Leadership
Sylvester’s political career began in 1988 when he was elected to the Texas House of Representatives for District 139 in Harris County. He served 13 terms, including a tenure as Speaker Pro Tempore from 2003 to 2009. During his time in state government, he fought against unfair energy price hikes, worked to make healthcare more affordable, and led efforts to secure billions in funding for public schools.
In 2015, he became Mayor of Houston, guiding the fourth-largest city in the nation through financial challenges, housing crises, and seven federally recognized natural disasters, including Hurricane Harvey and Winter Storm Uri. His leadership earned national recognition, with outlets like 60 Minutes, CNN, CNBC, The New York Times, and The Washington Post highlighting his impact.
Following the tragic passing of his close friend and colleague, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, in 2024, Sylvester came out of retirement to serve as the U.S. Representative for Texas’s 18th Congressional District.
A Legacy Rooted in Acres Home
Despite his many accomplishments, Sylvester never lost touch with his roots. A beloved teacher once described him as “Acres Home born, Acres Home grown, and Acres Home owned”—a sentiment he carried proudly. Until his final days, he remained a resident of his cherished neighborhood, committed to its people and future.
Family and Loved Ones
Sylvester is survived by his daughter Ashley Paige Turner Captain, her husband Jimmie Lee Captain, and their children, Aniya and Jameson. He is also remembered by his sisters Patricia Dlandish and Jacqueline Turner; brothers Clifford Turner, Robert Turner, and Donald Ray Turner (Deborah); former wife Cheryl; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who were like family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eddie and Ruby Mae Turner, and siblings Alfred “Charles” Turner, Leon Turner, Pearlie Marie Tyrone, Madie Thompson, and Everett Turner. His family expresses deep gratitude to his dedicated staff, Jeff Syptak and Marvalette Hunter, for their unwavering service and support.
Funeral Arrangements
Sylvester Turner will be honored with the following services:
- Lying in State: Tuesday, March 11, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Houston City Hall Rotunda, 901 Bagby Street, Houston, TX 77002.
- Lying in Honor: Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Noon to Friday, March 14, 2025, at Noon in the Hall of the Texas House of Representatives, 1100 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701.
- Funeral Service: Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at The Church Without Walls, 5725 Queenston Blvd., Houston, TX 77084. The service will be officiated by Dr. Ralph West.
- Pallbearers: Officers Jack Bailey, Myron Brady, Will Laster, Ingrid Pinzon, Paul Powell, and Rodney Tyler of his former security detail.
Attendees are encouraged to wear blue in his honor. A private burial will follow.
Honoring His Memory
Instead of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Greater North Houston Youth Alliance to support Sylvester Turner Family Day in the Park. Letters of condolence may be sent to the Turner Family, P.O. Box 56386, Houston, Texas 77256.
Sylvester Turner’s life was a testament to service, resilience, and love for his community. His impact will be felt for generations to come.
