Local Banker Humberto “Beto” Garza retires after 37-year distinguished career
Humberto “Beto” Garza will be officially retiring on March 31, 2014 after 37 years in the world of banking. Born, raised, and educated in Eagle Pass he graduated from Eagle Pass High School in 1961 and earned his BBA Degree in business and communications from St. Edward’s University in 1965. Upon returning to Eagle Pass he was employed by the Eagle Pass Independent School District as an elementary school teacher and also worked for the Texas Employment Commission until 1977 when he assumed the position of branch president of First Savings and Loan Association. Throughout his banking career and the many bank sales that were taking place at the time, Beto probably has the recorded for having worked for the most financial institutions, 11 to be exact, during his entire banking career.
“It’s been a trip with many ups and downs but I retire knowing that I have made many friends and have helped many people in our community with their financial needs. I drive around town and look at buildings and homes and I know that I have made a difference in people’s lives. I can actually say that I have helped some people initiate their business and today they are very prosperous businesses in our community.”
Aside from his banking career, Beto is also a very well known former radio personality having worked for KEPS Radio as a part time DJ for 16 years. He was the first person in this area to be a presenter at the prestigious Tejano Music Awards in San Antonio. Beto is considered one of the most requested emcees in our community. He has been an active and most respected member of his community. Beto has been a public servant having served as a city councilman and other numerous non-profit organization boards. He has served as Little League President, Boys Club Board, helped organize and was the first president of The EPHS Band Boosters, Past President of the Lions Club, Past President and present board member of the E.P. Chamber of Commerce, and also presently serves as a board member of the Kickapoo Gaming Authority of the Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino just to name a few.
Beto has received numerous awards for his civic participation but considers the following awards his most cherished:
- First Citizen of the Year – Eagle Pass Chamber of Commerce
- Lifetime Achievement Award – Eagle Pass Business Journal
- Outstanding Citizen – Proclamation by City of Eagle Pass City Council
- Title of “DON” – Proclamation by County of Maverick Commissioners Court
- Dedication of Christmas Telethon in his name – Christmas Telethon Committee
“I would like to thank the community for their friendship and I will continue to stay involved so that together we can continue to make Eagle Pass a better place to live for our families and future generations.”
Beto has been happily married for 47 years to Cecilia S. Garza and they have three children, Beto, David, and Cecilia (Chiquis), and four grandchildren, Beto, Jr., Orlando, Alejandro, and Olivia.
