About Richard Abila

Get to know Richard Abila, a native Texan, husband, father, and experienced leader committed to serving Jones County as your next County Judge. Discover the values and experiences that shape his vision for the future.

A life of service, leadership, and community

As a native Texan born in Haskell, I've spent my life building strong relationships and learning valuable lessons. I met my wonderful wife in 1989 at Ranger High School, and we've been together ever since, raising our son and creating a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure.
Although I didn't attend college, I've earned a wealth of knowledge through life experiences. I've worked hard to overcome personal struggles, including a battle with alcohol from 1990-2003. I've been sober since, and I'm proud of the progress I've made.
My professional journey began in 1996 at Bruner Chevrolet in Stephenville, where I started as a shop helper and worked my way up over 23 years. I'm grateful for the mentors and friends I made along the way, who saw potential in me and gave me an opportunity to grow.
In 2004, I obtained my private pilot's license, which has brought me immense joy and a new perspective on life. After retiring from the dealership, I took on new opportunities as a service manager at the Kubota store and later as a manager at Outlaw Conversions.
As a seasoned leader, I've had the privilege of leading men and women, positively impacting their lives, and helping them grow personally and professionally. I've also demonstrated the courage to make tough decisions when needed and the creativity to find innovative solutions to complex problems.
As the current Mayor of Anson, I've had the privilege of serving our community and working to make it a better place for all citizens. I also volunteer with Meals on Wheels and with the Anson Lions Club.
Now, I'm excited to take my skills and experience to the next level by running for Jones County Judge. I'm committed to serving our community with integrity, compassion, and a deep understanding of the values of our community. I'm proud to call Jones County my home, and I'm eager to work tirelessly on behalf of our community. I ask for your support and trust in this election, and I look forward to serving you as your County Judge.

Guiding principles

I am one of six children, raised by parents who worked hard despite limited formal education. My father had only a sixth-grade education, and my mother decorated cakes in supermarkets and bakeries. Life was not always easy, but those experiences gave me lasting lessons that guide me as a leader today.
Responsibility and Accountability: My parents taught us that every choice carries consequences. Asking for money meant answering questions about how we were managing our lives. That instilled in me the importance of being accountable for decisions and transparent with resources.
Financial Discipline and Stewardship: Growing up, I learned the value of money and the importance of living within our means. That’s why I still drive a 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe with 300,000 miles and live in a modest home. I keep overhead low because I know firsthand how hard it is to earn a dollar. As a leader, I apply that same discipline to overseeing taxpayer money—treating it with care, respect, and responsibility.
Humility and Simplicity: My upbringing taught me that leadership is not about extravagance but about service. I believe in leading by example, showing that modesty and humility are strengths, not weaknesses.
Commitment to Fairness: Integrity In a household of six children, fairness mattered. That shaped my belief that every decision must be rooted in integrity and a commitment to treat people equitably.
The guiding principles that shape my decisions as a leader are responsibility, accountability, financial discipline, humility, and integrity. These values are not abstract—they come directly from my upbringing and the way I live my life today. I will oversee taxpayer money with the same care and discipline I use in my own household, ensuring that every decision reflects respect for the people I serve.

More than just politics

If voters could know one thing about me outside of politics, it would be that I live my life with the same discipline and humility that I bring to leadership. I am a family person who grew up in a household of six children, where my parents taught us responsibility, accountability, and the value of hard work. Those lessons still guide me today—I drive a 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe with 300,000 miles, live in a modest home, and keep my overhead low because I believe in living within my means.
This isn’t just about frugality—it’s about respect. I know firsthand how hard it is to earn a dollar, and I treat every resource with care. Outside of politics, that’s who I am: someone who values simplicity, integrity, and responsibility in everyday life.

"Richard Abila is a dedicated and trustworthy leader. He has my full support!"

A Jones County Voter