It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Joe Vera, CFEE, who passed away peacefully on the morning of April 16, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Joe’s loss is felt deeply by all who had the privilege of knowing him — and by countless others across the globe whose lives and work were touched by his unwavering passion for, and dedication to, the festivals and events industry.
A visionary leader and tireless advocate for excellence, Joe devoted more than five decades to public service. Since joining the City of McAllen in 2014, he played a pivotal role in transforming the city into a vibrant hub of culture and community. He oversaw key departments including the McAllen Convention Center Facilities, Public Library, Palm View Golf Course, and Parks and Recreation.
Under Joe’s leadership, signature events such as the McAllen Holiday Parade flourished. First recognized as the Best New Event by the IFEA in 2014, the parade has since drawn hundreds of thousands of attendees and earned numerous accolades — including receiving the IFEA / Haas & Wilkerson Insurance Pinnacle Award for Best Parade eight times and the TFEA Best Parade in Texas Award nine times. His vision also helped McAllen earn the prestigious recognition of IFEA World Festival & Event City on three occasions.
Joe was a fierce champion of the IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Insurance Pinnacle Awards competition where he empowered his team at the City of McAllen to strive for excellence, resulting in hundreds of award-winning entries over the years — a testament to his belief in celebrating and elevating the work of event professionals around the world.
Joe’s impact extended far beyond city borders through his long-standing involvement with the International Festivals & Events Association (IFEA) and the Texas Festivals & Events Association (TFEA). He served two terms on the IFEA World Board of Directors and was serving as the 2025 IFEA World Board Chair at the time of his passing. In 2005, Joe was inducted into the IFEA Hall of Fame, one of the highest honors in the industry. He was a past president of both the Texas Festivals & Events Association and the Texas Association of Fairs and Events and was inducted into the TFEA Hall of Honor.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Joe was a devoted community servant. An Eagle Scout, he embodied the spirit of leadership, generosity, and service, giving back through organizations like the United Way, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Lions Club, Boy Scouts, and 4-H.
Joe often quoted P.T. Barnum: “The noblest art of all is making others happy.” By that measure, Joe was truly an artist — an incomparable spirit who brought joy, inspiration, and connection to all those around him.
We have lost not only a remarkable leader, but a truly great person — kind, visionary, generous, and full of heart. An example to be embraced and emulated by us all. Joe will be missed more than words can express.
Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Joe’s family, friends, and the many professional peers who are mourning this tremendous loss. His legacy will continue to inspire through the communities he helped to build and the joy that he championed.
Civil & Funeral Services for Joe Vera, CFEE
Monday, April 21, 2025
Civil Service at McAllen Performing Arts Center
- Family Viewing/Visitation at 2:00 p.m.
- Public Viewing/Visitation at 4:00 p.m.
- Rosary at 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, April 22, 2025, 1:00 p.m.
Mass at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 208 E. Camelia, Hidalgo, TX 78557
Funeral Internment will follow to Palm Valley Memorial Gardens at 4607 N. Sugar Rd. Pharr, Texas 78577
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to:
- Sacred Heart Catholic Church at 208 E. Camelia, Hidalgo, TX 78557
- United Way of South Texas at 113 W. Pecan Blvd, McAllen TX 78501
Joe Vera Memorial Scholarship In honor of Joe's long standing commitment to the IFEA and the Festivals & Events Industry, the IFEA has created a Memorial Scholarship in his honor.
Learn More. To donate to the Joe Vera Memorial Scholarship,
Click Here.