While funeral arrangements for Congressman and former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner are still being finalized, the Texas House passed a resolution on Thursday allowing him to lie in honor in the state House of Representatives Hall.
People who wish to pay their respects can do so next week, on Thursday and Friday, March 13-14.
The late United States representative died suddenly on Tuesday night in Washington, D.C., at the age of 70.
Turner’s family says he went to the hospital after President Donald Trump’s speech to Congress and was released.
He died at home Wednesday morning “from enduring health complications,” according to his family.
In honor of Turner, flags at Houston City Hall are flown at half-staff.
Turner was Houston’s mayor for eight years before being elected in November to represent the 18th district, a seat previously held by longtime Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who died in July of pancreatic cancer.
Now it is up to Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to call a special election to fill the remainder of Turner’s term, which expires in 2027.
Abbott has not said when he will make that decision, but he has expressed condolences.
“Cecilia and I are saddened to learn of the death of Congressman Sylvester Turner. Congressman Turner was a man of integrity who served his fellow Texans for over 36 years.
Congressman Turner leaves a legacy of service to our great state, beginning as a State Representative and progressing to Mayor of Houston before representing Texas’ 18th Congressional District.
“Congressman Turner will be missed, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time,” Abbott said in a statement.
Turner was diagnosed with bone cancer in 2022, but claimed he was cancer-free.
He frequently expressed how proud he was to have grown up in Acres Homes.
His death was announced just days after making several public appearances. Last Saturday, he went to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Parade.
