Bills superfan 'Pancho Billa' dies following cancer battle
Ezra Castro, the Buffalo Bills fan known as "Pancho Billa," has died following a battle with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer. He was 39 years old.
The sad news was announced Tuesday on Castro's Twitter account.
"Our hearts broken as we have lost our dear brother Ezra 'Pancho Billa' this morning," the tweet reads. "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."
Castro entered hospice care at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in April after being hospitalized with lung inflammation, according to Stevie Johnson of the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle.
Originally from El Paso, Texas, Castro had no ties to Western New York, but told Buffalo's WKBW-TV last year that "Bills Mafia has really become a family to me." Fans launched a petition in March encouraging the Bills to sign Castro to a one-day contract.
Bills owner Kim Pegula and retired running back Fred Jackson were among those who paid their respects to Castro on Twitter.
Pancho was a pillar of positive strength and energy for me and all of #BillsMafia. He’s been a tremendous inspiration for our team. I was fortunate enough to spend time with him and get to know his story. My heart goes out to his children, friends and family. Viva Los Bills! pic.twitter.com/UFBVMjMWDd
— Kim Pegula (@KimPegula) May 14, 2019
Rest In Peace My Friend! #VivaLosBills pic.twitter.com/C6j7fk7L2J
— Fred Jackson (@Fred22Jackson) May 14, 2019
A Bills fan through-and-through, and an inspiration to us all.
— Buffalo Bills (@BuffaloBills) May 14, 2019
Pancho Billa, we’ll miss you. #VivaLosBills #BillsMafia pic.twitter.com/yUDafu7m4O