Edwards Abstract and Title Co. announces acquisition of Rio Grande Valley Abstract

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored content provided by Edwards Abstract and Title Co. It was not produced by the Rio Grande Valley Business Journal editorial staff.

Edwards Abstract and Title Co. is pleased to announce its acquisition of Rio Grande Valley Abstract, uniting two established South Texas title companies with generations of experience, trusted relationships, and deep ties throughout the Rio Grande Valley.

The acquisition represents a significant milestone for Edwards Abstract and Title Co. as the company continues to strengthen its presence throughout the Valley while honoring the history, relationships, and people who have helped shape the region’s title industry.

Founded in 1880, Edwards Abstract and Title Co. has been part of the growth and evolution of South Texas for more than 145 years. Throughout its history, the company has built its reputation on expertise, relationships, and a commitment to serving the real estate professionals, businesses, and families who call the Rio Grande Valley home.

Rio Grande Valley Abstract brings its own distinguished history to the acquisition.

“We are honored to welcome Rio Grande Valley Abstract to Edwards Abstract and Title Co.,” said Byron Jay Lewis, Chief Executive Officer. “This acquisition is an opportunity to honor the legacy created by Margaret Joan White and the dedication of the entire Rio Grande Valley Abstract team while building on the relationships and trust they have established over the years.

In1948, the company was operating as Valley Abstract Company under M.L. Dew, a local attorney. Margaret Joan White joined the company in 1972 and, in 1987, purchased it from the Dew family, establishing the company as Rio Grande Valley Abstract Co., Inc.

White went on to establish a remarkable legacy within the title industry as one of the first women to own a title company in Texas. A pioneer in her field, she expanded the company to three locations in Brownsville, Harlingen, and South Padre Island and held numerous leadership positions throughout her career, including an appointment to serve on the Texas Board of Professional Land Surveying.

Following White’s passing in 2025, her daughter, Jacqui Dempsey, continued that legacy. Dempsey has served as President of Rio Grande Valley Abstract since 2018 and became an owner in 2025.

As part of the acquisition, Jacqui Dempsey will join Edwards Abstract and Title Co. as Executive Vice President of Cameron County. In this leadership role, she will work alongside Chief Executive Officer Byron Jay Lewis, President Mark Lewis, and Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer Mike Overly, bringing her industry knowledge, leadership, and understanding of the Cameron County market to the team.

The coming together of Edwards Abstract and Title Co. and Rio Grande Valley Abstract brings two organizations with rich histories, established relationships, and a shared understanding that the title business is ultimately built on trust.

Both companies have long served the same communities across Cameron County, creating an opportunity to bring their people, knowledge, and relationships together while building on what each has established.

For Edwards Abstract and Title Co., the acquisition creates an opportunity to build on its longstanding presence in Cameron County while carrying forward the relationships and knowledge that have defined Rio Grande Valley Abstract for more than seven decades.

Edwards Abstract and Title Co. is committed to supporting the customers, real estate professionals, businesses, and community partners who have trusted Rio Grande Valley Abstract throughout the years.

Together, Edwards Abstract and Title Co. and Rio Grande Valley Abstract bring two South Texas title legacies and two experienced teams together with a shared commitment to the people and communities they serve.