FORT WORTH, Texas — Gyna Bivens, a longtime Fort Worth City Council member and former mayor pro tem, has died. She passed away Monday afternoon February 9, 2026.
Bivens represented District 5 on the Fort Worth City Council from July 2013 until her retirement in May 2025, serving as the longest-tenured member of the council at the time of her departure.
During her years in office, Bivens became known as a fierce advocate for east and southeast Fort Worth, particularly the Stop Six community. She consistently pushed for economic development, neighborhood revitalization and greater attention to the needs of senior citizens.
Mayor Mattie Parker: “A Champion for Neighborhoods”
Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker expressed deep sorrow over Bivens’ passing.
“I’m completely heartbroken that we have lost such a light and force in this world,” Parker said in a statement. “Gyna Bivens truly personified love and service, and she was a champion for neighborhoods throughout east Fort Worth and the entire city for many years.”
Parker described Bivens as a steady voice on the council and a mentor.
“Gyna was always a refreshing voice of reason when we needed it the most, and she reminded us daily to ‘be impressive.’ It was the honor of a lifetime to not only serve alongside her but to call her my dear friend and a mentor,” Parker said.
A Career of Leadership and Advocacy
Beyond City Hall, Bivens served as president and executive director of North Texas LEAD since 2006. The organization connects college-educated professionals with employers seeking top talent. It was founded by Fort Worth CEOs and former Mayor Kenneth Barr.
Bivens earned a bachelor’s degree in radio/television/film from North Texas State University. Her career spanned public service, journalism and corporate communications. She served as head of the City of San Antonio’s Public Information Office, a bureau chief for FOX-4, a corporate spokesperson for Oncor Electric Delivery and a television reporter.
She also held numerous leadership roles, including:
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President and executive director of North Texas Leaders and Executives Advocating Diversity
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Chair of the Fort Worth Transportation Authority Board
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Member of the Regional Transportation Council
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Board member of the Women’s Policy Forum
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Member of the Fort Worth Commercial Board of Adjustment
City Manager Jay Chapa: “One of a Kind”
City Manager Jay Chapa also reflected on Bivens’ impact.
“Gyna was truly one of a kind. Her passion and commitment to public service was consistently tied to improving the lives of all of Fort Worth citizens,” Chapa said. “She loved Fort Worth and her presence will be greatly missed.”
He added that he was fortunate to have worked alongside her for much of his career and extended condolences to her family and loved ones.
Bivens’ legacy includes more than a decade of leadership at City Hall and a lifetime of advocacy focused on opportunity, equity and community growth.
