Former Wilmer Mayor Hecter Casarez dies

WILMER – The City of Wilmer recently said goodbye to former Mayor Hector Casarez. 

Casarez, 57, died on Nov. 27 surrounded by family. 

His obituary read he was born on Aug. 1, 1963 in Mathis, Texas and graduated from Hutchins Baptist High School. 

He received his accounting degree from the University of Texas at Dallas.

He was the mayor of the City of Wilmer from September 2011 to May 2014 and he was the first Hispanic mayor in the city. 

He also worked as an accountant and he enjoyed sporting events and Nascar races as well as traveling and adventures with his loved ones.

His obituary also read, “He was passionate about the youth in Wilmer and worked hard to bring in a new school for the community. 

“He also had hopes to bring in a new recreation center for them as well. Hector dedicated his life to providing for his family.

“His unconditional support and love for them never wavered. 

“He loved his nieces as his own and enjoyed watching them raise their own families.” 

The city flew its flag at half-mast last week in honor of the former mayor’s passing.

Casarez is survived by his mother, Maria Adelfa Casarez of Wilmer, his sister, Lydia Pena and husband Michael Pena of Fort Worth, as well as four nieces and many great nieces, nephews, and friends.

“As the current Mayor of Wilmer I wish the former mayor’s family my prayers and thoughts from all of the people here in this city,” said Wilmer Mayor Sheila Petta.