Juan Jose Hernandez Sr.

Our Dad Juan Jose Hernandez Sr. passed into eternity on April 3, 2022. He was home and comforted by his family and friends in the days leading up to his homecoming, as his body slowly began to fail him due to a stroke. Dad’s last spoken words to us were, “I Love you”, as he reached out to reassure each of us of his affection.

Having celebrated 92 years in February, very little went unsaid to him as we gathered for yet another milestone birthday. Juan embraced anytime he could be with family. “FAMILY TOGETHER” was his motto and his happy place. To him, there was nothing more important than making family memories. Our Patriarch led the way in frequent family get togethers, that included the “The Annual Easter Weekend Reunion”, a time we looked forward to all year long. Dad was a man of few words, he loved watching us as we gathered enjoying our time together, and this blessed him more than words could express. He savored his memories quietly watching and observing, but he never missed a thing going on around him, the epitome of “living in the moment”. Juan enjoyed cooking, baking, music, dancing, boating, playing cards and dominos, watching his Astros, and camping. In 2013, Juan moved to Houston where he continued to do the things he loved. He was a great example of living the “HEART” principles: Hear, Encourage, Show Appreciation, Respect and Teach others. Juan had a passion for life and a faith in God that could be seen in his eyes and smile. He inspired all he met and knew through his gentle spirt, his warmth, his humor, and his loving support.

Dad was affectionally known as Meme was born in Barranquitas, Puerto Rico. Juan served honorably in the United States Army from 1953 until his retirement in 1975 as a Sergeant First Class (E-7). He served in the Korean Conflict and Vietnam war. Juan was awarded numerous citations during his military service, including the Korean Service Medal; the Vietnam Campaign Medal with 1 Silver and 1 Bronze Service Star; United Nations Service Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Army Commendation Medal; and the Bronze Star Medal.

Dad enjoyed the art of making exquisite tasting cuisine, baking elaborate cakes, pastries, ice sculptures for formal military and family events. During his military career he frequently entertained the troops with music and skits that demonstrated his desire to bring joy and laughter despite the circumstances. Retiring as an Executive Chef he opened Johnny’s Place, a Puerto Rican American Food Restaurant in Killeen, TX. He even sponsored a baseball team called “Johnny’s Place”, that he reminded us of while in the hospital. Juan also earned numerous awards working for the Civilian Service as “Employee of the Year.” It was once said so powerfully by Maya Angelou, paraphrasing, “It’s not what someone says that you remember the most, but how they make you feel”. Dad did this for everyone, he made you feel special, whether stranger, a friend, but especially his Family.

Juan Hernandez was preceded in Death by his wife of 59 years Eva; his brothers Ruben Hernandez and William Hernandez; his sisters Felicita Hernandez and Mercedes Nazario

Juan Hernandez leaves behind to celebrate his life: Sons – Juan Hernandez, Jr. and Family of Cypress, George Hernandez and Family of Flower Mound, and Luis Hernandez and Family of Temple; Daughters – Maria Smith and Family of San Antonio, Mary Ornstein and Family of Houston and Anna Blackburn and Family of Houston; Brothers – Luz Hernandez of Puerto Rico and Freddy Hernandez of Puerto Rico; Sister – Carmen Moya of Puerto Rico; Eleven Grandchildren, Five Great Grandchildren and Two Great, Great Grandchildren; And Many Friends and Extended Family