The Brownsville community is deeply grieving the loss of Erasmo Castro, a cherished leader and passionate advocate, who passed away on Saturday morning, as confirmed by local officials. His departure has profoundly affected the residents of Brownsville, Texas, where he was a dedicated participant in community initiatives and worked tirelessly to foster positive change.
At the time of his passing, Castro was serving as the President of the Brownsville Independent School District (BISD) Board, a role in which he committed himself to expanding educational opportunities for students.
His dedication to public service and education was widely recognized, and his leadership was instrumental in shaping the district’s policies and programs. Beyond his work on the school board, Castro was also known as a fervent champion for the city and its people.
Earlier this year, in January, Castro publicly revealed that he had been diagnosed with stage IV metastatic pancreatic cancer, specifically Adenocarcinoma, which had spread to his liver. Despite facing significant health challenges, he remained active in his responsibilities and continued to fight for the causes he held dear. His resilience and unwavering commitment to the community inspired many and left an enduring legacy.
Brownsville Mayor John Cowen expressed his condolences to Castro’s family and friends, describing him as a “tireless advocate for our community.” Cowen emphasized that Castro’s passion and leadership will be sorely missed. His heartfelt words resonated with numerous residents, many of whom took to social media to share their grief, fond memories, and appreciation for the positive impact Castro made.
State Representative Janie Lopez of District 37 also paid tribute, noting the significant influence Castro had on those around him. “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Erasmo Castro. His kindness, wisdom, and witty humor touched so many lives, and his memory will continue to inspire us,” Lopez stated. Her sentiments echoed the widespread admiration and respect that Castro garnered throughout his years of service and advocacy.
Deborah Bell, Chairwoman of the Cameron County Republican Party, commended Castro for his unwavering dedication to the community. She remarked that he will always be remembered as someone who actively worked to improve Brownsville. His contributions to local government and education stand as a testament to his commitment to serving the people.
Even Jared Hockema, Chairman of the Cameron County Democratic Party, put aside political differences to acknowledge Castro’s remarkable achievements. “Before he passed, I told Erasmo that he had achieved the most anyone in public service could—making a genuine difference in the lives of people,” Hockema said.
Erasmo Castro’s legacy lives on in the lasting changes he helped implement and the countless lives he touched. His commitment to bettering his community and his unwavering passion for education and public service will continue to inspire all who knew him.