He was just a boy from the 44 with big dreams of transforming his corner of the world—and he did exactly that. Today, we pause to honor and remember the extraordinary life and legacy of Congressman Sylvester Turner.  

On March 5th, at the age of 70, Congressman Turner passed away at his home in Washington, D.C. In the days leading to his final farewell, many gathered to pay their respects as he lay in state at Houston City Hall and the Texas State Capitol’s Hall of the House of Representatives in Austin.  

For 27 years, he served with unwavering dedication as the state representative for Texas House District 139. From there, he went on to lead the city he cherished as the 62nd Mayor of Houston, guiding it with wisdom, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to progress. Even in the face of health challenges during his second term, his service never wavered. In 2025, he was sworn into Congress, carrying forward the legacy of another political titan, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee.  

Beyond his remarkable career, Congressman Turner was a devoted father to his beloved daughter, Ashley; a proud grandfather to his cherished grandson, Jamison Turner Captain; and son-in-law, Jimmie Captain. They, along with a host of family and friends, mourn his passing. A man of deep faith, he worshiped at The Church Without Walls. He also wore the colors of black and gold of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, with immense pride, embodying its values of leadership and service.  

His funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 15th, from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at The Church Without Walls, 5725 Queenston Blvd., Houston, TX, with Dr. Ralph West presiding. A private burial will follow.  

The Turner family requests that attendees honor his memory by wearing blue and, in lieu of flowers, consider making donations to the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in his honor. They extend their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and condolences during this time of profound loss. Please keep them in your prayers and allow them the space to grieve in private.  

Congressman Sylvester Turner’s legacy of leadership, resilience, and unwavering service will forever be etched in the hearts of those he touched. May he rest in eternal peace.

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Rest in Love Congressman Sylvester Turner

He was just a boy from the 44 with big dreams of transforming his corner of the world—and he did exactly that. Today, we pause to honor and remember the extraordinary life and legacy of Congressman Sylvester Turner. His funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 15th, from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at The Church Without Walls, 5725 Queenston Blvd., Houston, TX, with Dr. Ralph West presiding. A private burial will follow. The Turner family requests that attendees honor his memory by wearing blue and, in lieu of flowers, consider making donations to the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in his honor. They extend their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and condolences during this time of profound loss. Please keep them in your prayers and allow them the space to grieve in private.