The city of Fort Worth is in mourning following the passing of former Mayor Pro Tem and longtime District 5 City Councilmember Gyna Bivens, who died on Monday, February 9, 2026, at the age of 71. Bivens, a towering figure in North Texas politics and a fierce advocate for the Stop Six community, passed away following a courageous three-month battle with pancreatic cancer.
Known for her blunt honesty, trademark wit, and unyielding commitment to East Fort Worth, Bivens retired from the City Council in May 2025 as its longest-serving member. Her legacy is etched into the very skyline of her district, from the revitalization of the Cavile Homes to the multi-million dollar investments she secured for neighborhoods that had been overlooked for decades.
Before her twelve-year tenure on the City Council, Bivens was a familiar face in North Texas media. A graduate of North Texas State University, she built a distinguished career as a broadcast journalist and bureau chief for Fox 4, and even served on the assignment desk for CBS News Texas. Her background in communications made her a master of the “straight-talk” style that constituents loved—she never left anyone wondering where she stood.
“Gyna Bivens truly personified love and service,” said Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker in a statement. “She was 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 call her my dear friend and mentor.”
Bivens represented District 5 from 2013 to 2025, but her roots in the community went much deeper. She lived in the same neighborhood she served, often appearing personally at crime scenes or community meetings to ensure transparency and accountability.
Her legislative victories were numerous, including:
Neighborhood Revitalization: Leading the $35 million effort to transform the Stop Six community.
Regional Leadership: Serving as the chair of the Regional Transportation Council and on the board of the National League of Cities.
Economic Advocacy: Fighting for better public transportation, tougher tree ordinances, and quality-of-life improvements for senior citizens.
Even after her diagnosis in late 2025, Bivens maintained her trademark grace. Colleagues recalled her “marching orders” to continue the work of serving others, even in her final days.
“She was a mighty force,” said Bob Ray Sanders of the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce. “You never had to wonder what she thought—she would tell you in a direct but respectful way. She was a council member whom no one could fully replace.”
Bivens is survived by her family and a city that is undoubtedly better for her service. As flags fly at half-staff across Fort Worth, the community is reminded of her final charge to all who knew her: to lead with grit, to fight for your neighbor, and above all, to be impressive.
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