Navigation Back Search

Hector Navas, MARCHA co-founder, dies

September 25, 2013
The Rev. Hector Navas speaks at the 2011 meeting of MARCHA — Methodists Associated Representing the Cause of Hispanic Americans. A UMNS file photo by Mike DuBose.
The Rev. Hector Navas speaks at the 2011 meeting of MARCHA — Methodists Associated Representing the Cause of Hispanic Americans. A UMNS file photo by Mike DuBose.

TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. (UMNS)—The Rev. Hector Manuel Navas, 79, a founder of The United Methodist Church’s Hispanic/Latino caucus, died Sept. 18.

Navas was a founder of Methodists Associated Representing the Cause of Hispanic Americans, and served as a pastor, missionary, executive of different United Methodist institutions, and member of several boards and agencies at the general church and annual conference levels. He also was a U.S. Army veteran.

“With his death, MARCHA lost one of its most loyal members, and The United Methodist Church lost one of its most effective Hispanic leaders,” the caucus said in a statement.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Ina; four children, Elaine Navas, Ron (Paula), Richard (Terri), and Lisa Navas; sister, Lita Cabo; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, according to an obituary published in the Tampa Bay Times. The memorial service was held Sept. 22 at First United Methodist Church Tarpon Springs, followed by the graveside service Sept. 23 at Florida National Cemetery.

Sign up for our newsletter!

SUBSCRIBE

Latest News

Photo of retired Bishop Michael J. Coyner, courtesy of the Indiana Conference of The United Methodist Church website.

Opinion: ‘What’s next for our United Methodist Church?’
With a little more than a year before the regular General Conference 2020, retired Bishop Michael J. Coyner looks at what The United Methodist Church might consider for the future.
The Rev. John Yeaman.

Commentary: Are United Methodists ignoring Wesley?
Methodism founder John Wesley implored us to ‘do no harm.’ John Yeaman feels the denomination’s stance on homosexuality ignores that rule.
General Church
The Rev. Althea Spencer Miller. Photo courtesy of Drew University.

Commentary: The plan of 'gracious inclusion'
The Simple Plan would relieve The United Methodist Church of the burdens of discrimination and the responsibility of enforcement by punishment, writes a Drew University Theological School professor.