Jerry Hernandez

With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of Jerry Hernandez, a cherished son, twin brother, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, who left this world on July 4, 2025.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Jerry entered the world alongside his twin sister, Teri, on March 10, 1965. As a teenager, he moved to Corpus Christi, Texas, where he was welcomed into the home of his big sister Merri and her husband. It was there he formed a lifelong, unbreakable bond with Merri's middle daughter, Laurie-a connection that would become one of the great joys of both their lives.

Jerry was the proud son of Margaret Reyes Hernandez and Jose Guadalupe Hernandez. He is preceded in death by his father; his son, Christopher Joseph; and his brothers Jody, Robert, and Edward. He is survived by his mother and siblings David, Merri, Michael, Susan, and Teri.

A talented mechanic and hardworking laborer, Jerry could fix just about anything. He had a gift for working with his hands-whether it was tuning up a car, sketching on a pad, or building model planes and cars with incredible precision. He loved BMX biking, tinkering, drawing, and feeding the birds, squirrels, and neighborhood cats-often talking to them like old friends.

He never met a stranger. If someone needed help, Jerry didn't hesitate-he'd give the shirt off his back or the last cent in his pocket, no questions asked. He had a rough edge and a gentle soul, and he was happiest when surrounded by family, sharing good food and better laughs.

Jerry was a devoted father to Christopher Joseph†, Nicholas Michael, Jacob Edward, and Samantha Marie. He shared a chapter of life and four children-Christopher,Nicholas, Jacob, and Samantha-with Gloria. He is also remembered by Felipe and Jaycee, who were part of his early journey. He was a proud grandfather to Aaliyah Rose, Mia Nicole, Zarenity Lynn, and Jayden Anthony.

In 2024, Jerry was diagnosed with leukemia, which led him to retire and begin treatment. Even in illness, he never lost his love for life's little joys-quiet mornings, feeding the animals, and seeing the people he loved gathered together.

Though Jerry rarely sought the spotlight, his warmth, humor, and quiet wisdom left lasting marks on everyone who knew him-especially his many nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart. He shared an especially deep bond with his niece Laurie, who grew up by his side and will forever carry forward his love for creativity, precision, and unspoken strength.

Jerry passed on Independence Day-a fitting day for a man who walked his own path, fixed what was broken, and loved deeply without ever needing to say much. He will be missed beyond words and remembered in every carefully drawn sketch, every engine hum, and every model car still waiting to be built.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Corpus Christi Funeral Home with a funeral service at 12:00 p.m. (noon) that same day. Services will conclude that day.