Jesus "Jesse" Vela, Jr.
August 27, 1947 — May 19, 2024
Jesus "Jesse" Vela Jr., 76, a name synonymous with dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to education and community service, left an indelible mark on the Rio Grande Valley through his lifelong passion for empowering individuals and fostering a brighter future for generations to come. Born and raised in Pharr, Texas, Jesus "Jesse" Vela, Jr., died Sunday, May 19, 2024, at Doctors Hospital at Renaissance in Edinburg.
Residing in Alamo, Texas for over 50 years, Mr. Vela is survived by his wife of 53 years, Idolina Gorena Vela; three sons, Ariel Jesus, Omar Joel, and Hiram Josue (Caitlin) Vela. He had six grandchildren, Vanessa Marie, Issac Ariel, Vivian Alyss, Nydia, Noah Christopher, and Sophia Rose Vela; a brother, Carlos (Enedelia) Vela; and his sisters-in-law, Irma (Kiki) Trevino, Anadelia (Jesse) Willingham, Hortencia, Janice, and Anita Vela.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Jesus and Porfiria Vela; five sisters, Bridget Vela, Anastacia (+Roy) Gonzalez, Celia (+Jose) Delgado, Maria (+Emilio) Salazar, Lupita Alvarado; three brothers, Gilberto Vela, Emilio Vela, Reyes Vela; and his father and mother-in-law, Fernando and Isabel Gorena.
In recognition of his years of service and impact, PSJA ISD dedicated Jesus "Jesse" Vela Jr. Middle School in Alamo in his honor during the fall of 2023. Mr. Vela's commitment to education was evident from an early age. He graduated from PSJA High School in 1966, laying the foundation for a remarkable educational journey. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Pan American College in 1970, followed by a Master of Education degree from Pan American University in 1973. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue further studies at Baylor University, where he attained ABD (All But Dissertation) status in 1999.
Over a span of 39 years, he served as a source of inspiration in the field of education, taking on various roles such as teacher, coach, counselor, educational diagnostician, Migrant Program Director, and Federal Program Director. Through these diverse experiences, he gained an understanding of the educational landscape, empowering him to advocate for the needs of both students and educators.
Mr. Vela's impact extended far beyond the classroom. He dedicated over 10 years of his life to the PSJA ISD School Board, demonstrating exemplary leadership as President, Vice-President (three times), Secretary-Treasurer (four times), and most recently Assistant Secretary. He served the community of Alamo as City Commissioner, earning the prestigious title of Mayor Pro-Tem during his tenure. His involvement in various community organizations, including the Pharr Lions Club, Alamo Economic Development Council, Alamo Little League Baseball, and the San Juan-Alamo Boys & Girls Club, showcased his commitment to improving the lives of those around him.
Mr. Vela held the position of President for the PSJA Education Foundation. Since 2013, the Foundation has successfully raised and distributed millions of dollars in scholarships and grants to students and staff within the PSJA ISD.
His dedication as a School Board Member led him to be selected as the School Board Delegate to the TASB State Convention twice and to serve thrice on the Region One TASB Legislative Advisory Council. Mr. Vela's influence also reached national levels as he contributed his expertise to advisory committees for the Education Commission of the States, the TEA Migrant Program, and the US Department of Education.
Mr. Vela's contributions earned him numerous accolades, including recognition by the Texas Education Agency with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to Migrant Education. The US Department of Education also honored him for enhancing the educational experiences of At-Risk, Title I, and Migrant students. His inclusion in Who's Who among Community Leaders further underscores his influence and standing in the community.
In every role he undertook, he exemplified dedication, leadership, and a heart brimming with compassion. His legacy will continue to inspire generations, reminding us all of the transformative power of education and community service.
Visitation will begin at 5 p.m., with rosary at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at Memorial Funeral Home in San Juan. Funeral service will take place at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 23, 2024, at Resurrection Catholic Church in Alamo. Interment will follow at Palm Valley Memorial Gardens in Pharr. A Celebration of Life gathering for family and friends will be held after the burial at Jesus "Jesse" Vela Jr. Middle School on Business 83 and Cesar Chavez in Alamo.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the PSJA Education Foundation at www.psjaedfoundation.org.
Funeral services are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home in San Juan.