HOUSTON – In honor of the life and legacy of former Houston mayor Sylvester Turner, who died at the age of 70, the city and state flags will both be flown at half-staff for several days.
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On Wednesday, hours after hearing about Turner’s passing, Gov. Greg Abbott ordered all flags statewide to be flown at half-staff until March 8 in honor of Turner.
Cecilia and I are saddened to hear of the passing of Congressman Sylvester Turner.
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) March 5, 2025
Our prayers are with his family and loved ones during this time of grief. pic.twitter.com/PNTMXzwOLZ
Turner’s family released a statement Wednesday saying the former mayor and U.S. Congressman died at his home in Washington from health complications. In 2022, Turner announced to the city of Houston that he had been battling bone cancer.
“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 5:45am 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,” the statement read, in part.
Houston leaders, along with leaders all over the nation, offered their condolences to the Turner family.
The family said more information on his funeral arrangements will be released at a later date.
