Friends,

Our city and nation have suffered a tremendous loss in the passing of former Texas State Representative, former Mayor of Houston, and Congressman of the 18th Congressional District, Sylvester Turner. I give my deepest and most sincere condolences to his daughter Ashley and his entire family. Click here to hear my comments regarding his passing during city council.

I had the honor of knowing Congressman Turner almost my entire life. Each milestone I have achieved he has been somewhere in the picture. He has been a trusted mentor and advisor, and I will miss being able to seek his wisdom for guidance.

I have used his path to chart my own. He was a lawyer so I became a lawyer. He was a state representative, so my first run fresh out of law school was a campaign for state rep. He ran for a local government seat, so I sought city council. He was a blueprint and model of success on the road I want to travel.

Politically, we did not always agree, but we respected each other’s views. He gave me the freedom to explore and be creative. He gave me the encouragement to aim for higher. And he never felt challenged when he saw me excelling, yet he took pride in knowing he played a role in it.

There is no doubt that Mayor Turner was a significant influence on my life, and he helped open many doors for me. We experienced countless moments together, and I will cherish those as I chart further ahead on my journey.

One thing he told me when I was first elected that has stayed with me is, “Never overreact, and never underwhelm.” I have used that piece of advice almost every day since, and it will be something I continue to lean on as a guiding principle.

Our city seems to be losing monumental leaders at a frequent rate, and those shoes must be filled. It is essential for their legacies to continue. Although their shoes are very big, I plan to tie the laces really tight and do my part to continue the race.

Rest well, Mayor. Your impact will never be forgotten.

Together we will!

Edward Pollard