AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Gov. Greg Abbott ordered flags in Texas immediately lowered to half-staff in honor of U.S. Rep. Sylvester Turner, who unexpectedly died Wednesday morning due to health complications.
Turner dedicated his life to public service. He served for decades as a state representative, mayor of Houston, and recently was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for the 18th Congressional District.
“Texas has lost a longtime leader and dedicated public servant with the death of Congressman Sylvester Turner of Houston. As a mark of respect for his public service as state representative, mayor, and congressman, it is fitting that flags be lowered to half-staff in his honor,” Abbott said in a statement.
The governor encouraged businesses, political entities and individuals to lower their flags as a mark of respect.
“On behalf of Texas, the First Lady and I offer our thoughts and prayers to the Turner family in their time of mourning,” Abbott said. “I urge all Texans to appropriately remember Sylvester Turner’s service to Texas.”
The governor said flags should be returned to full-staff at sunrise on Saturday, March 8.
“At the discretion of the county judge, flags in Harris County may be flown at half-staff through final interment,” Abbott said.
When longtime Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee passed away after a battle with pancreatic cancer last summer, Turner announced he was running to replace his longtime friend. The 18th district is a historically significant seat once held by civil rights icons such as Barbara Jordan, Mickey Leland, Craig Washington and Lee. Following in their footsteps, Turner was committed to advancing the district’s legacy of justice, equity and transformative public service.
Celicia and I are saddened to hear of the passing of Congressman Sylvester Turner.Our prayers are with his family and loved ones during this time of grief. pic.twitter.com/k1oM8IZtnJ
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) March 5, 2025
Turner family statement
“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 5:45 a.m,. 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.”