Danny King leads tributes to PSJA icon Jesse Vela

PHARR, Texas – Tributes have poured in for Pharr-San Juan-Alamo icon Jesus “Jesse” Vela Jr. 

The long-serving school board trustee died Sunday at the age of 76.

Vela, who was born and raised in Pharr, devoted ten years of service to the PSJA ISD School Board, serving as president, vice-president (three times), secretary-treasurer (four times), and most recently assistant secretary. Before this he was a teacher, coach, counselor, migrant program director, and federal program director for the school district. An Alamo middle school was named in his honor last November. 

The Texas Education Agency honored Vela with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to Migrant Education. The U.S. Department of Education honored him for his efforts to enhance the educational experiences of At-Risk, Title I, and Migrant students.

Region One Education Service Center Executive Director Daniel P. King is a former superintendent of PSJA. He said:

“Jesse Vela had a passion for education and for the youth of the PSJA community.  He dedicated thousands of hours of his time serving on the school board and the PSJA Education Foundation, visiting campuses, and attending all kinds of school and community events.  

“Jesse could always be counted on to share words of encouragement and wisdom to students, employees, and anyone who crossed his path. 

“A fine family man and one who was dedicated to his church and his faith, Mr. Vela will be greatly missed by the many people whose lives he impacted, including those among us who had the privilege of working alongside him. While he is no longer with us, his legacy and impact remain. That is something to treasure.”

“Jesse was a true warrior and a champion for education. His integrity, passion, his intellect were inspirational to us all,” said his good friend and School Board President Carlos Villegas, Jr. “Our deepest condolences to the entire Vela family. Rest in peace, good friend.” 

PSJA Superintendent of Schools Dr. Alejandro Elias said: “On behalf of the PSJA ISD Family, our most sincere condolences to Mr. Vela’s family. We are saddened by the loss of our esteemed Board member who contributed to the success of students, staff, and community through his decisions, knowledge of education, and leadership. Mr. Vela will truly be missed by our PSJA ISD Family as he leaves a legacy of servitude.”

Vela was also president of PSJA Education Foundation, which has raised millions of dollars for scholarships.

“We are heartbroken by the profound loss of our president, our guide, and our mentor, Mr. Jesse Vela. He was a shining example of dedication, compassion, and commitment to the betterment of our PSJA community,” said PSJA Education Foundation Vice-President Marlen Lopez. “His shining light will remain in our hearts forever, and his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us.”

PSJA ISD issued this statement:

Dear PSJA ISD Family, 

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved longtime School Board Member, Jesus “Jesse” Vela Jr. 

Mr. Vela dedicated over 10 years to serving our district with unwavering commitment, passion, and heartfelt dedication to the success and well-being of our students, staff, and community. 

Throughout his tenure, Mr. Vela’s leadership and vision left an indelible mark on PSJA ISD. He was not only a valued colleague but also a cherished friend to many. His contributions to PSJA ISD will continue to inspire us and shape the future of our schools for years to come. 

PSJA ISD extends our deepest condolences to Mr. Vela’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. Please join us in keeping them in your thoughts and prayers. 

In memory of Mr. Vela, PSJA ISD will continue to honor his legacy by upholding the values and dedication he demonstrated throughout his many years of service. 

With heartfelt sympathy, 

– PSJA ISD 

Biography

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PSJA ISD also posted a biography of Vela on its website. Here is the bio:

Jesus “Jesse” Vela Jr., 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. 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.

Proudly born and raised in Pharr, Texas, 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.   

Residing in Alamo, Texas for over 50 years, Mr. Vela shared his life with his wife of 52 years, Idolina Gorena Vela, and together they have three sons—Ariel Jesus, Omar Joel, and Hiram Josue—as well as five grandchildren. 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 at PSJA ISD. Through these diverse experiences, he gained a comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape, empowering him to effectively 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. Simultaneously, he served the community as an Alamo 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, and the San Juan-Alamo Boys & Girls Club, showcased his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those around him.  

Most recently Mr. Vela held the position of President at the PSJA Education Foundation, showcasing his unwavering commitment to promoting educational brilliance. 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 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 exceptional contributions earned him numerous accolades, including recognition by the Texas Education Agency with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his unparalleled contributions to Migrant Education. The US Department of Education also honored him for his tireless efforts in 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 unwavering dedication, unparalleled 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. 

In memory of Mr. Vela, PSJA ISD will continue to honor his legacy by upholding the values and dedication he demonstrated throughout his countless years of service. 

More tributes

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PSJA Education Foundation issued this statement:

Dear PSJA Education Foundation Supporters,

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our esteemed Foundation President, Jesus “Jesse” Vela Jr. 

Jesse’s dedication, vision, and unwavering commitment to education have profoundly impacted our foundation and community. His leadership and passion will be deeply missed.

Most recently, Jesse held the position of President of our PSJA Education Foundation, showcasing his commitment to promoting educational excellence, helping students achieve their post-secondary goals and dreams, and supporting teachers. Through his leadership and support, the Foundation has successfully raised and distributed millions of dollars in scholarships and grants to students and staff at PSJA ISD since 2013.We extend our sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones. Please join us in keeping them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

PSJA Education Foundation

Priscilla Salinas, a school principal for PSJA, said: “The community of Alamo and PSJA is grieving the loss of Mr. Jesse Vela, a compassionate soul who made a significant impact in the community. His devotion to attending every game and event was a reflection of his commitment to Alamo and PSJA. Mr. Vela’s presence will not be forgotten by any of us who had the privilege of knowing him. My sincerest condolences to the family for your loss.”

PSJA Memorial Early College High School issued this statement:

“Just last week, board member Jesus Jesse Vela Jr. proudly and firmly stood strong on our stage to honor our scholarship recipients—offering sage advice  as our seniors prepare for their next journey in life. Wolverine Country is saddened by the news of Mr. Vela’s passing and we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. The impact he’s made on our community, students, and school is a gift that will forever transform lives. PSJA Memorial Early College High School pledges to honor his legacy by upholding the values and dedication he demonstrated throughout his many years of service and endless support of Wolverine Country.”

Arianna Vazquez-Hernandez, a former executive director of communications for PSJA, said: “My heart aches after hearing the news. MrSir as Ari affectionally called Mr. Jesse Vela, Jr. was a great man and advocate for education. Sending prayers to his family, you will be missed. Rest in peace.”

PSJA School Board Member Cynthia A. Gutierrez said: “Our deepest and sincere condolences to the Vela family for the loss of our fellow board member Mr. Jesse Vela. May he rest in peace.”

Alamo Economic Development Corporation, said: “Our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Jesus “Jesse” Vela Jr. May you find solace and strength during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.”

U.S. Rep. Vicente Gonzalez said: “Saddened to learn about the passing of Jesus “Jesse” Vela Jr. His decade of service to PSJA ISD left an indelible mark. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”

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