EDINBURG, Texas - Edwards Abstract and Title Co. has acquired Rio Grande Valley Abstract, combining two title companies with decades of experience serving real estate customers in South Texas.
As part of the acquisition, Jacqui Dempsey, president and owner of Rio Grande Valley Abstract, will take on the role of executive vice president of Cameron County for Edwards Abstract and Title Co.
Dempsey will work with CEO Byron Jay Lewis, President Mark Lewis and Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer Mike Overly, bringing her experience in the local title industry to the company's leadership team.
The acquisition expands Edwards Abstract and Title Co.'s operations in Cameron County while bringing together the expertise and customer relationships developed by both businesses over the years.
Edwards Abstract and Title Co. was established in 1880 and has served South Texas through more than a century of regional growth. Rio Grande Valley Abstract's roots date to 1948, when the business operated under the name Valley Abstract Company with local attorney M.L. Dew.
Margaret Joan White joined the business in 1972 and acquired it from the Dew family in 1987, subsequently establishing Rio Grande Valley Abstract Co., Inc.
White was among the first women in Texas to own a title company. She grew the business to include offices in Brownsville, Harlingen and South Padre Island and held several industry leadership positions. Her professional service included an appointment to the Texas Board of Professional Land Surveying.
Following White's death in 2025, Dempsey continued her family's involvement in the business. She had served as president since 2018 and became an owner in 2025.
In announcing the acquisition, Byron Jay Lewis said Edwards was pleased to bring Rio Grande Valley Abstract into the company.
“We are honored to welcome Rio Grande Valley Abstract to Edwards Abstract and Title Co.,” Lewis said. “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.”
The companies said their combined operations will continue serving real estate professionals, businesses, families and other customers throughout Cameron County. The acquisition also brings together teams that have developed knowledge of the region's real estate market and established connections with local customers and industry partners.
