News Summary
Myrna Cortez, co-owner of the iconic San Antonio hat shop Paris Hatters, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and generosity. The beloved entrepreneur played a vital role in the store’s success, which has catered to numerous celebrities since its establishment in 1917. Cortez’s passing has left the community mourning, as her spirit and dedication to both the family business and local community will be dearly missed.
San Antonio Mourns the Loss of Beloved Paris Hatters Co-Owner Myrna Cortez
In the heart of San Antonio, a wave of sadness has swept through the community following the death of Myrna Cortez, co-owner of the beloved hat shop, Paris Hatters. Myrna passed away on February 8, 2025, surrounded by her family and friends, leaving behind a legacy that will be hard to match. The news was shared through a heartfelt post on the shop’s Instagram account, where it was noted that Myrna was more than just a co-owner; she was an integral part of the Paris Hatters family.
A Legacy of Laughter and Love
In their touching announcement, the family business praised Myrna for her infectious sense of humor, sharp wit, and generous spirit. Her kindness touched everyone who walked through the doors of Paris Hatters. Myrna and her husband Abe were a dynamic duo, working tirelessly to uphold the shop’s reputation for quality and style. Together, they raised a daughter, Alexandra, who is now set to take the reins of the family business, ensuring that the rich history of Paris Hatters continues on.
History in Every Hat
Established in 1917, Paris Hatters has served as a treasured destination in San Antonio for over a century. Originally situated near the landmark Joske’s building, the shop moved to its current location at 119 Broadway in the early 1960s. In the world of hats, Paris Hatters is a titan, boasting an impressive inventory of over 3,000 custom-fitted and custom-shaped hats. The shop is renowned for catering to an eclectic mix of high-profile clients, including the likes of Pope John Paul II, Johnny Cash, and four U.S. presidents, who all sought that perfect hat to make a statement.
Famous Faces and Historic Charm
The store’s unique charm doesn’t just stem from its vast selection of hats but also from its hand-cranked cash register, a delightful nod to its rich history. Paris Hatters has been a hotspot for not only tourists but also celebrities, politicians, and notable figures in sports. For instance, famous personalities like Phil Jackson, Waylon Jennings, and Shaquille O’Neal have all found their signature looks at this iconic store.
A Proud Family Business Facing Challenges
Myrna’s pride in the family business was evident during a 2023 interview, where she shared her excitement about Alexandra taking over as the new leader. However, in recent times, the beloved Paris Hatters has faced challenges due to street closures near the Alamo redevelopment project. Business owners, including those at Paris Hatters, have expressed concerns over limited access for customers as they navigate their way through ongoing construction. Shockingly, many were not informed about the street closures until a flier appeared on their doors just before the busy July 4, 2024 holiday.
Frustration Brews Among Business Owners
To add to their woes, several business owners in the area, including Myrna and Abe, have voiced their frustration over being ineligible for city grants associated with the construction. The specific criteria set forth meant that many established businesses were left without the much-needed support they hoped for during this time of transition.
Remembering Myrna Cortez
As the city of San Antonio and the Paris Hatters community come to terms with Myrna’s passing, fond memories of her vibrant spirit will echo through the halls of the shop she helped build. Her laughter, warmth, and unwavering dedication to her family and community are qualities that will surely be remembered. The legacy of Myrna Cortez lives on in the hats she loved and the many lives she touched.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- KSAT: History of SA Staple Paris Hatters
- Wikipedia: Paris Hatters
- KENS5: Made in SA – Paris Hatters Celebrates 100 Years
- Google Search: Paris Hatters
- Spectrum Local News: San Antonio Family Celebrates 104 Years in Hat Business
- Google Scholar: Paris Hatters
- ExpressNews: Paris Hatters Turns 100
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Paris Hatters
- News4SA: Alamo Renovation Closes Stretch of Houston St.
- Google News: Paris Hatters
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
