Jim L. Brewster

Jim Lauro Brewster, 84, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and child of God, died on August 19 after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Jim was born in Pharr, Texas to Lauro Falcon Brewster and Ofelia Villarreal Brewster. He graduated from PSJA High School in 1956 and went on to earn a B.S., a Master's in counseling, and a Master's in Administration, all from Pan American University.

Jim met the love of his life, Keta, during their childhood and devoted 63 years to their marriage. Together they raised four children: Janice, Laura, Jim Jr., and Jennifer.

Jim was an elementary school teacher in the PSJA School District. He taught at both Farias and Buckner Elementary schools. After leaving the classroom, he worked as an elementary school counselor at Doedyn's Elementary School for more than twenty years. A successful and respected educator, Jim had many former students who came back to thank him over the years. He regularly came across students who recognized and approached him wherever he went. Jim was also a proud supporter of PSJA ISD athletics where he and wife Keta have had football season tickets for 65 consecutive years.

Jim will forever be remembered for his service to his community. He served as a Pharr City Commissioner for 12 years and as Mayor Pro Tem. He was also active in Pharr Industrial Foundation, Bridge Board, Amigos del Valle, Pharr Economic Development Corporation, Friends of the Pharr Memorial Library, Pharr Sunrise Kiwanis, and the Board of Line and Adjustment. Of his contributions to the community, Jim was most proud of his work in furthering the development of the City of Pharr and in helping establish the Pharr International Bridge. Jim was also proud of his service to our nation serving in the National Guard and the Army as a tank commander.

Jim was also a man of great faith. He was faithful member of La Trinidad United Methodist Church in Pharr. He served as the church's treasurer for 40 years and also served as a youth counselor and a Trustee.

Jim is survived by his wife, Keta Brewster; his four children: Janice Brewster (Cliff) Martinez, Laura Brewster (Scott Clear), Jim (Melissa) Brewster Jr, and Jennifer Brewster; eight grandchildren: Matthew Brewster Martinez, Michael Brewster Martinez, David Brewster-Acosta, Rachel (Brewster) Clear, Victoria Brewster-Martinez, Jordan Brewster, Jake Brewster, and Jim Brewster III; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. with a 6 p.m. service Monday, August 23, 2021, at Memorial Funeral Home in San Juan. Funeral service will take place at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, August 24, 2021, at La Trinidad United Methodist Church in Pharr. Interment will follow at Palm Valley Memorial Gardens in Pharr.

Funeral services are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home in San Juan.