89R25452 KRT-D
By: Muñoz H.R. No. 934
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, A life made rich through meaningful service drew to
a close with the passing of McAllen assistant city manager Joe Vera
III on April 16, 2025, at the age of 69; and
WHEREAS, The son of Joe Vera Jr. and Gloria Vera, Joe Vera was
born in Pharr, where he grew up with the companionship of two
sisters, Joann and Linda; he developed a strong work ethic from an
early age, and his leadership abilities earned him the rank of Eagle
Scout; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Vera enjoyed a long and rewarding career in
public service; as the assistant city manager for the City of
McAllen for nearly 11 years, he spearheaded the creation and
expansion of such landmark events as the award-winning McAllen
Holiday Parade, the South Pole Illuminated Festival, and the
McAllen Marathon; prior to that role, he worked for the City of
Hidalgo, helping to launch Borderfest, overseeing the development
of the Dodge Arena, now known as the Payne Arena, and securing
historic retail and economic initiatives; in addition, he was the
world board chair of the International Festivals & Events
Association, and his accomplishments earned him numerous
accolades, including induction into the IFEA Hall of Fame and the
Texas Festivals & Events Association Hall of Honor; and
WHEREAS, Active in his community, Mr. Vera was involved in
United Way, the Lions Club, and 4-H; a man of faith, he was a
congregant of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hidalgo for more than
four decades; and
WHEREAS, In all his endeavors, Mr. Vera benefited from the
love and support of his wife, Alma, and he was the proud father of
two children, Trisha and Homer; over the years, their cherished
family grew to include two grandchildren, Ryan and Reena; and
WHEREAS, Joe Vera was a man of great compassion who found joy
and inspiration in helping others, and he leaves behind a legacy of
good works that will long resonate throughout Hidalgo County and
beyond; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas
Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Joe Vera III and
extend sincere condolences to the members of his family: to his
wife, Alma Vera; to his children, Trisha Garza and Homer Garza and
his wife, Sonya; to his grandchildren, Ryan and Reena; to his
sisters, Joann Watts and her husband, George, and Linda Casas; and
to his many other relatives and friends; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for his family and that when the Texas House of
Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Joe Vera.