Former Fort Bend County Judge Robert E. 'Bob' Hebert and Patricia Hebert Named 2025 Bleil Award Honorees
The Fort Bend County Historical Commission has selected Judge Robert E. “Bob” Hebert and Patricia “Pat” Hebert as the 2025 Bert E. Bleil Award recipients in recognition of their extensive contributions to historical preservation and civic leadership. The Heberts will be honored in a ceremony on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at the Fort Bend Museum, located at 410 S. Fifth St. in Richmond, Texas. A Meet and Greet reception will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by an award program that is free and open to the public.
This year’s program will include a historical political debate featuring re-enactments of Sam Houston and Mirabeau B. Lamar, discussing key issues from the founding of the Republic of Texas. The debate will be presented by Professor Nicholas Cox from Houston Community College (representing Houston) and Professor Paul Spellman from Wharton County Junior College (representing Lamar).
A Legacy of Preservation and Civic Engagement
The Bert E. Bleil Award, established in 2009, is presented annually to individuals or organizations that have demonstrated exceptional dedication to heritage tourism, historical preservation, and the protection of cultural resources in Fort Bend County. The award is named in honor of Bert E. Bleil, a former Chair of the Fort Bend County Historical Commission, who was instrumental in developing initiatives to acknowledge achievements in historical and cultural preservation.
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The Heberts’ decades of service in Fort Bend County politics, civic engagement, and historical conservation have left a lasting impact on the region. Their involvement spans public service, education, and charitable efforts, with a particular focus on preserving Fort Bend’s historical landmarks and cultural heritage.
Judge Bob Hebert’s Contributions to Fort Bend County
After graduating from Pampa High School in the Texas Panhandle, Judge Bob Hebert served as a U.S. Navy aviatorand was stationed in Hawaii. He met Patricia while assigned to the University of Texas, and they have been married for over 60 years. In 1972, the Heberts founded Eco Resources, a company specializing in operating utility districts for water and sewer services.
Judge Hebert’s political career began with Pat’s encouragement, leading him to serve as President of the Alief ISD School Board, City Manager of Rosenberg, Temporary Receiver for the City of Arcola, and Fort Bend County Judge from 2003 to 2018.
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As Fort Bend County Judge, he played a pivotal role in supporting the Fort Bend County Historical Commission. One of his most significant contributions was the preservation of the historic Fort Bend County Courthouse in Richmond. The courthouse, known for its Texas Renaissance architectural style, remains a landmark government building with an ornate rotunda, an iron staircase, and an original district courtroom that continues to serve as a ceremonial venue.
Following his tenure as County Judge, Hebert served as CEO of Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels, an organization that assists over 2,300 senior citizens annually across Fort Bend and Waller Counties.
Patricia Hebert’s Impact on Historical and Community Preservation
A Bellaire High School graduate, Patricia Hebert attended the University of Texas, majoring in education. Her civic engagement began when she was elected President of her daughter’s PTA at Boone Elementary in Alief, marking the start of her dedication to community service.
Patricia has worked tirelessly to preserve and promote Fort Bend County’s historical heritage, including:
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Serving as a docent at the Fort Bend Museum, leading tours of the Moore Home
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Assisting in historical reenactments for Texian Market Days, an annual Fort Bend history event
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Serving as Chair of the Fort Bend History Association, eventually leading the organization as its President
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Holding a seat on the Fort Bend County Historical Commission, where she contributed to the Historic Cemetery Committee
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Fundraising efforts exceeding $1 million for various Fort Bend County civic and charitable organizations
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Honoring a Lifetime of Service
The Heberts’ political and civic involvement has shaped the preservation of Fort Bend County’s historic structures and educational outreach. The Fort Bend County Historical Commission’s decision to honor them with the 2025 Bleil Award reflects their lifelong dedication to historical conservation, local governance, and community service.
In recognition of their impact, this year’s award program will blend historical discussion with civic engagement, featuring the debate between Sam Houston and Mirabeau B. Lamar, two of Texas' most influential leaders. The event will offer attendees an educational and entertaining perspective on Texas’ early political landscape while celebrating modern-day contributions to historical preservation.
For those interested in local history, community service, or civic engagement, the event provides an opportunity to celebrate those who have played a role in preserving Fort Bend County’s heritage.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
