William Paul “Bill” Saenz was born on June 5, 1947, in Rio Grande City, Texas. As the eldest of seven children born to Pablo A. Saenz, Jr. and Anne Wilson Saenz, Bill naturally embraced a life of leadership, responsibility, and devotion to family. On March 28, 2026, he passed peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family, at the age of 78. Having called Kingsville home for nearly 60 years, Bill leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Bill graduated from Rio Grande City High School in 1965 and went on to attend Texas A&I University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Math and Speech in 1974, followed by a master’s degree in multidisciplinary studies in 1978. His lifelong dedication to education began at Texas A&I with the Upward Bound Program. He later served as a counselor, test administrator, and international student advisor, touching countless lives during his early years in higher education. After a decade in university service, Bill transitioned to teaching math at H.M. King High School, where he spent more than twenty years shaping young minds. His patience, enthusiasm, and genuine care for students went far beyond the classroom. He served as a class sponsor, guided fundraising efforts, chaperoned proms, contributed to local and state curriculum development committees, and served as head of the math department. His excellence in teaching was recognized through numerous awards, but his greatest achievement was the lasting impact he made on his students.

Bill later returned to Texas A&M University-Kingsville, serving in the Office of Student Financial Aid for twenty years before retiring in November 2025. Throughout his career, he mentored thousands of students and colleagues alike, often serving as both a guide and a steady source of encouragement. Bill genuinely believed in the power of education and helping others pursue their dreams. He took immense pride in having graduated from Texas A&I and having paved the path for his siblings to attend college as well. He was a proud Hoggie/Javelina, Aggie Dad, Aggie Grandpa, and Red Raider Grandpa.

Bill met the love of his life, Esperanza “Dee” Saenz, at a dance on the Texas A&I campus in the late 1960s. They married in 1971 and were blessed with their one and only daughter, Nora Lynn. Together, they built a life grounded in faith, love, and unwavering commitment. Bill was an active member of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church and later Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church. He served as a lector and an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion. He was also a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus Council #2623, a Third-Degree Knight, and served multiple terms as the council’s financial secretary.

To those who knew him best, Bill was many things. To his family, he was “Billy.” To his students, he was “Mr. Saenz.” To colleagues, he was “Mr. Bill.” But, the titles he treasured most were Dad and Grandpa. Bill was an exceptional educator and administrator who was known for his intense work ethic and sincere desire to help others learn and grow. He enjoyed watching football and science-fiction films, listening to music, dancing, cruising, and solving problems. An engineer at heart, he had a remarkable strategic ability to fix just about anything. He had a deep love for animals and never turned away a hungry neighborhood cat. Always willing to lend a helping hand, Bill was a steady and dependable presence in the lives of many. Above all, Bill cherished time spent with his family and friends. His life reflected his strong Catholic faith, and his greatest legacy is the loving kindness he shared so freely with others.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 47 years, Esperanza “Dee” Saenz; his parents, Pablo A. Saenz, Jr. (2010), and Anne Wilson Saenz (1970); and his youngest brother, Richard A. Saenz (2009).

Bill is survived by his loving daughter, Nora Saenz Cargo (Sean); his cherished grandchildren, Nicholas Cargo (Destinee), Katherine Cargo (Makayla), and Christopher Cargo; his brothers, David Saenz (Norma) and Michael Saenz (Diana); his sisters, Elizabeth Margo (Javier) and Patricia Lerma (Joe); as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his devoted sweetheart and caregiver, Nilda I. Salinas, whose care and companionship brought him comfort.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Kingsville Hospice for their compassionate care and support.

Bill's family will receive condolences from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary; with a rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in Kingsville, TX. Rite of committal and interment will follow at Chamberlain Cemetery.

Bill’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Though he will be missed deeply, his spirit, kindness, and the many memories shared with family and friends will never be forgotten. His family finds comfort in knowing his legacy of love will continue through those whose lives he touched.