Sylvester Turner’s Legacy: Former Houston Mayor and Congressman Passes Away at 70

The unexpected passing of Sylvester Turner, former Houston mayor and Congressman, has sent shockwaves across Texas and Washington, D.C. Turner died early Wednesday at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, resilience, and public service.

His family confirmed that Turner became ill on Tuesday night while attending the State of the Union Address in Washington, D.C. He was taken to the hospital, later released, and returned home. Tragically, he passed away in the early hours of March 5, 2025, due to ongoing health complications.

Many friends, colleagues, and citizens expressed their shock, as Turner had been seen just hours before his passing, actively engaged in political duties.

A Final Message: Texting Just Hours Before His Death

Longtime KHOU 11 anchor Len Cannon shared a heartfelt moment, recalling his last text exchange with Turner.

“I texted Sylvester Turner last night at 8:27 p.m., knowing he was at the president’s address to Congress,” Cannon said. “He quickly responded within 10 minutes—he was there, working, engaged. It’s shocking to think that just hours later, he was gone.”

Turner's Battle with Cancer

During his tenure as Houston’s mayor, Turner faced a private battle with osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer. Despite undergoing an intense treatment regimen, including surgery, radiation, and reconstructive procedures, Turner continued his work in office, keeping his illness hidden from the public.

His struggle began unexpectedly in 2022 when a dentist discovered a lump in his jaw while treating him for a nagging toothache.

“'Mayor, I'm going to send you for a biopsy,’” Turner recalled his dentist telling him. “I said, 'Biopsy for what? I have a toothache.’”

A week later, Turner underwent a nine-hour surgery at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. Doctors removed the affected bone from his jaw and replaced it with bone from his leg. He spent eight days in the hospital and then endured six weeks of radiation therapy five days a week.

“The radiation was challenging because I'm claustrophobic,” Turner shared in a 2022 interview with KHOU 11 anchor Len Cannon. To ease his anxiety, he asked the technicians to play gospel music during the sessions.

“‘Turn it up. Turn it up loud enough for me to hear it,’” Turner would tell them.

Keeping His Health Struggles Private

Turner managed to keep his battle with cancer a secret while continuing his work as mayor. Only his family, chief of staff, and security team knew about his illness. Even after losing 17 pounds due to treatment, he remained active in his role.

His faith played a significant role in his journey.

“It strengthened my faith because who wants to serve a God when in the most vulnerable state you can't call on him ... and he comes through,” Turner said.

A Political Journey Rooted in Public Service

Turner’s political career was marked by his unwavering commitment to Houston and its people. He served two terms as Houston’s mayor before being elected to Congress in 2024, filling the seat left by the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who had passed away from pancreatic cancer.

“He had lost weight—he never regained it—but every time I asked him about his health, even last summer, he told me, ‘My doctors give me the green light, I’m fine, I have the energy to run,’” Cannon recalled.

A Leader Who Never Stopped Working

Despite his health struggles, Turner remained dedicated to public service. Just days before his passing, he attended the RodeoHouston Parade, where he was seen engaging with the community.

“He prided himself on being present,” Cannon said. “We may never know how he was really feeling because he always put up a brave front.”

Bishop James Dixon, a longtime friend of Turner, saw him recently at a gala and noted his strength and perseverance.

"If you knew him, you knew he wasn't at his best, (but) he kept being the people's champion," Dixon told KHOU 11.

A Legacy That Will Live On

Turner’s passing marks the end of an era for Houston and Texas politics. His leadership, resilience, and commitment to his city and state have left an indelible mark.

As friends, family, and colleagues mourn his loss, they also celebrate the life and contributions of a leader who never backed down from a challenge.

Turner’s faith, dedication, and service will be remembered by all who knew him. His ability to persevere through hardship, serve with integrity, and remain deeply connected to his community makes his legacy one that will be honored for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Sylvester Turner was more than a politician—he was a fighter, a leader, and a man of faith. His sudden passing leaves a void, but his impact on Houston and beyond will never be forgotten.

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This information is sourced from KHOU 11