Late Congressman Sylvester Turner to Lie in Honor in Texas House

The Texas House of Representatives has passed a resolution permitting former Houston Mayor and U.S. Representative Sylvester Turner to lie in state in the Hall of the House of Representatives next week. Individuals who wish to pay their respects may do so on March 13-14.

Turner, aged 70, unexpectedly passed away on Tuesday night in Washington, D.C. His family reported that he was discharged from the hospital after attending President Donald Trump’s address to Congress, but he passed away at home the next morning due to “enduring health complications.”

Turner, having held the position of mayor of Houston for eight years, was elected in November to represent Texas’ 18th Congressional District, taking over from the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee.

The vacancy in Congress created by his passing is anticipated to be addressed by Governor Greg Abbott, who is expected to call a special election to complete the remainder of his term.

Abbott conveyed his sympathies, commending Turner’s years of dedication to public service. “Congressman Turner has created a lasting impact through his dedication to our great state,” he stated.

Turner fought against bone cancer and announced that he is now cancer-free in recent years. His unexpected passing left many in disbelief, especially since he had participated in public events only days earlier, such as the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Parade. In his honor, flags at Houston’s City Hall have been lowered to half-staff.