[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 52 (Monday, March 26, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E370]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING WILLIAM ``BILLY'' LEO

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. VICENTE GONZALEZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 26, 2018

  Mr. GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of 
William ``Billy'' Leo, a public servant, small business owner, and 
proud resident of La Joya, Texas, who passed away Saturday, March 17, 
2018.
  From 1974 to 2011, Billy, known as ``Mr. Democrat,'' served his 
community in a number of capacities. He served as County Clerk for 
Hidalgo County, Mayor of the city of La Joya, School Board Trustee for 
La Joya lSD, and from 1988 through 1996, Billy served as a delegate for 
the Democratic National Committee. During this time, Billy was also the 
proprietor of beloved local convenient store chain, Leo's Food Mart.
  In 1960, Billy graduated from Texas A&I Kingsville with a degree in 
political science . . Shortly thereafter, he emerged as a political 
leader, following in his father, Leo J. Leo's, footsteps. Both men 
served the people of Hidalgo County with great honor. He once said of 
La Joya and his life, ``I worked hard and cared for my city. That's all 
I want to be remembered for. I was here and I think this is the best 
city there is.''
  Mr. Speaker, South Texas lost one of our greatest public servants, 
but his legacy will live on. It is a privilege to continue the fight 
William ``Billy'' Leo championed his entire life: making sure every 
voice in Hidalgo County, and South Texas, is heard.

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