Jose J. (Jesse) Hernandez, our beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, entered rest on April 14, 2024 at the age of 81. Jesse was born in Brownsville, Texas to Jose (Kino) Hernandez and Petra Calderon on July 14, 1942. His step-mother was Carmen Hernandez. He was the husband of Esther A. Hernandez.
Jesse was a remarkable man. We remember not only the roles he embodied but also the values he held dear. He epitomized love, sacrifice, and courage. His commitment to his family was unwavering, shaping a legacy of devotion and unity. In addition to his steadfast dedication to his family, his passion for environmental conservation as a recycler and gardener exemplified his reverence for the Earth and his desire to leave behind a better world.
From 1964-1968, Jesse served in the United States Air Force. He completed basic training at Lackland Air Force Base. Upon completing his specialized training at Brooks Air Force Base, he was deployed to Vietnam as a Medical Service Specialist for a year. He received an Air Force Commendation medal for his actions during the war. Returning from Vietnam, he completed his Military service and was discharged with Honors. Jesse’s service reflected his courage and commitment to his country.
Jesse graduated from Texas Southmost College and Southwest Texas State University. After his formal education, he taught at Texas Southmost College and St. Philip’s College as a Clinical Instructor. His dedication as an educator empowered countless lives with knowledge and inspiration. Jesse understood the transformative power of knowledge and the importance of lifelong learning. Through his dedication, he empowered countless lives, instilling a passion for education and a thirst for knowledge in all who had the privilege of learning from him.
Just as he answered the call to service during the Vietnam War, he would once again serve his nation. Going door to door to ensure American citizens were registered to vote and to take part in our precious democratic process. His service underscored his unwavering commitment to democracy and civic engagement. He believed strongly in the importance of voting, recognizing it as not only a right but a responsibility. He worked tirelessly to encourage participation in the democratic process, advocating for justice, equality, and progress for all.
Jesse worked in the Respiratory Therapy field for over fifty years. He exemplified compassion and dedication in his profession, offering comfort and healing to those in need. His work was not just a job but fulfilling his purpose as a testament to his commitment to the well-being of others. Not only did he provide healing in the medical field but sought out spiritual healing as a parishioner of St. Ann’s church. He found solace and strength, living out his faith through acts of compassion and service. His presence was a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew him, embodying the values of love, kindness, and solidarity.
Jesse was preceded in death by his parents, Jose (Kino) Hernandez and Petra Calderon, step-mother, Carmen Hernandez; sister, Herlinda Limon and brother, Agusto Ruedas; and is survived by his spouse, Esther A. Hernandez; his daughter Amanda A. Hernandez, his son Joseph D. Hernandez and spouse Connie, grandchild, Mark Hernandez and spouse Jennifer, great-grandchild, Elijah Hernandez and his daughter Rosemarie H. Lango and spouse Peter, grandchildren, Michael, Peter, Mia, and Laura Lango; his brothers Abelardo Hernandez (spouse Jane Hernandez), Ruben Garza, Felix Calderon Jr. (spouse Maria Calderon); his sisters Adelina Buentello (spouse Noe Buentello), Elvia Villarreal (spouse Rudy Villarreal), Alma Cortez (spouse Joe Cortez), and Estela Menchaca (spouse Jesus Menchaca); sister-in-law Elena Salinas and brother-in-laws Emilio Salinas and Alfred (Freddy) Garcia, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Though Jesse may no longer walk among us, his spirit lives on in the memories we hold dear and the values he instilled in us. Let us honor his life by carrying forward his legacy of love, service, and compassion by embracing the importance of education and active participation in our democracy. Rest in peace, dear friend. Your light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts.
A visitation for Jesse will be held Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 12:00 PM at Funeraria Del Angel Roy Akers, 515 N Main Avenue, San Antonio, Texas, followed by a funeral service at 3:00 PM.
