He was the inspirational leader of one of the NFL’s most loyal followings. And the tributes continue to pour in for Buffalo Bills fan “Pancho Billa.”
His given name was Ezra Castro. He was and is now known to all as “Pancho Billa.” The 39-year-old story of perseverance and inspiration recently lost his battle with cancer. Anne Neville of the Buffalo News tells the story of Castro, a native of the Lone Star State who cheered on his Buffalo Bills donned in his colorful costume and with unbridled passion.
Billa’s family issued a statement following his passing on Tuesday.
"Our hearts are broken as we have lost our dear brother Ezra “Pancho Billa” this morning. We are thankful and forever grateful for all the love and support during this journey. Ezra was surrounded by family and loved ones. At this time we ask for privacy as we mourn our loss."
The love and admiration for this man has been pouring in non-stop since the news broke from all corners and from many of those who love the game. There were also many messages and thoughts from Orchard Park, New York. From ownership (Kim Pegula) and head coach Sean McDermott to former Bills players such as Pro Football Hall of Famer Andre Reed and current defensive tackle Harrison Phillips.
Kim Pegula and #Bills DT Harrison Phillips speak from the heart when talking about the impact that Pancho Billa had on the Buffalo Bills community. #VivaLosBills pic.twitter.com/v26sGO7Yx6
— Ashley Rowe (@TheAshleyRowe) May 14, 2019
#Bills head coach Sean McDermott talks about the passion #PanchoBilla brought to the organization & WNY #VivaLosBills pic.twitter.com/93WnLVBKxW
— 7 News WKBW (@WKBW) May 14, 2019
https://twitter.com/Andre_Reed83/status/1128350340498092032
"Ever since he called my name, he's been with me and he's been with our team and nothing's going to change." @horribleharry99 reflects on the relationship he's had with #PanchoBilla since day one. pic.twitter.com/qMkljk0zsd
— 7 News WKBW (@WKBW) May 14, 2019
James P McCoy, a longtime photographer for the Buffalo News, posted this video of “Pancho Billa” at his request following his passing.
#PanchoBilla Pancho wanted me to post this video after his passing. I shot this while he was in Houston MD Anderson hospital a few weeks ago. RIP Amigo https://t.co/og7vox7Q7x @TheBuffaloNews pic.twitter.com/U0Hmqpn0H2
— James P McCoy (@jmccoyphoto) May 14, 2019
He will always be a hero to so many. He shared his struggles with this deadly disease and fought the good fight until the very end. There are so many others facing a similar situation and “Pancho Billa” made his battle very public and in doing that, touched so many lives. Prayers go out to his family, friends and all that were inspired by his many messages and his amazing life story.