The Houston community is deeply mourning the loss of former mayor and U.S. Representative, Sylvester Turner.
In 2023, the Houston Association of Black Journalists honored Turner at our annual sneaker ball, recognizing his unwavering dedication to public service.
His passing has come as a shock to all who loved and admired him. Turner was not only our mayor but also an activist and a trailblazer in our communities.
Raised in Acres Homes, Turner continued to live in the same neighborhood throughout his life.
As mayor of the nation’s fourth-largest city, Turner served two terms. His mantra, “If you can dream it, you can do it,” reflects the optimism that defined his leadership and his enduring legacy.
Turner’s eight years as mayor of Houston — the nation’s most diverse and inclusive city — were marked by his remarkable ability to forge a shared vision, build bridges across diverse communities, cultivate partnerships, and generate consensus. These qualities drove numerous visionary and transformative initiatives.
Under his leadership, Houston became a national model in various areas. He spearheaded historic pension reform, reduced homelessness, led the global energy transition, supported the growth of an innovative technology ecosystem, and invested in neighborhoods long underserved, particularly through his signature equity initiative, Complete Communities.
These accomplishments are significant by any measure. Yet, Turner’s legacy is also defined by his leadership in the face of crises. Over his eight years in office, he managed the city’s response to seven federally declared disasters. These included the catastrophic 2017 Hurricane Harvey, the 2016 Tax Day Flood, Tropical Storm Imelda in 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic, Hurricane Laura, national civil unrest in 2020, Winter Storm Uri in 2021, and tornadoes in southeast Houston in 2023.
He leaves behind a beloved daughter and an abundance of family, friends and colleagues.
The Houston Association of Black Journalist released the following statement:
“Congressman Sylvester Turner will always hold a special place in the hearts of our HABJ family. There was never a call he did not answer. Whether it was for a proclamation, a mic drop, or a dance with the crew, the original Mr. 4-4″ was where any and every Houstonian needed to be. We will miss you, sir, and are praying for everyone who loves you. The city of Houston will never be the same. Job well done. ‘May flights of angels sing thee to thy final rest.'”
