Senate Resolution No. 258 honors the life and legacy of the Honorable Sylvester Turner, who passed away on March 5, 2025, at the age of 70. A dedicated public servant, Turner had a distinguished career that included serving as a state legislator, the mayor of Houston, and a member of the United States House of Representatives. Raised in a modest household in Houston's Acres Homes neighborhood, he overcame significant challenges to achieve academic success, ultimately graduating from the University of Houston and Harvard Law School. Throughout his career, he was known for his eloquence, bipartisanship, and commitment to various causes, including health care, education, and criminal justice reform.
As mayor, Turner navigated Houston through numerous crises, including Hurricane Harvey and the COVID-19 pandemic, while implementing initiatives aimed at economic revitalization and community safety. Elected to Congress in 2024, he continued to serve his constituents with dedication and maintained a strong connection to his community. The resolution expresses condolences to his family and recognizes Turner's visionary leadership and lasting impact on Houston and Texas. The Texas Senate adopted the resolution on March 13, 2025, in memory of Congressman Turner.