Former Mayor Pro Tem Gyna Bivens dies Monday

Gyna Bivens, who represented District 5 on the Fort Worth City Council from July 2013 to May 2025 and retired after a term as mayor pro tem, died Monday afternoon.

Mayor Mattie Parker’s statement

“I’m completely heartbroken that we have lost such a light and force in this world. 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.

“Gyna’s passion and love for all of District 5 and the Stop Six community was unwavering, and she worked tirelessly in her time on City Council and beyond as an advocate for economic development, neighborhood revitalization, and the senior citizen community. She was always willing to lend her knowledge and expertise where needed, serving on countless committees and boards throughout her life.

“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.

“My heart and prayers are with all who loved Gyna as we grieve this enormous loss together.”

Gyna Bivens biography

Since first winning election to the Fort Worth City Council in 2013, Bivens has been a champion for neighborhoods throughout east and southeast Fort Worth and an advocate for economic development, neighborhood revitalization and speaking up for senior citizens. In May 2025, she retired her seat on the City Council as the longest-serving and most senior member of the current Council.

Bivens had also served as president and executive director for North Texas LEAD since 2006. Created by a group of Fort Worth CEOs and former Mayor Kenneth Barr, LEAD connects college degreed professionals with employers seeking to hire top talent.

Bivens earned a bachelor of arts degree in radio/television/film from North Texas State University. Her professional experience includes work as the 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 has also served as the president and executive director of North Texas Leaders and Executives Advocating Diversity, the chair of the board of directors of the Fort Worth Transportation Authority, and a member of the boards of the Women's Policy Forum, the Regional Transportation Council, and the Fort Worth Commercial Board of Adjustment.

City Manager Jay Chapa's statement

"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. She loved Fort Worth and her presence will be greatly missed. I was lucky to have worked with her for a good portion of my career, and I extend heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones."

Photo: Gyna Bivens

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