Teresa "Momo" Hernandez

Teresa "Momo" Hernandez was born on December 29, 1929, to Teodoro and Santos Rodriguez, on a ranch in Refugio County, Texas. She was one of 8 siblings (Joe, Gumesindo, Ted, Mickey, Genevieve, Toni, and Susie) and grew up surrounded by the values of faith, family, and hard work that would guide her throughout her life.

She met her beloved husband, Rudolfo Hernandez, at a dance in Cuero honoring Navy servicemen returning from World War II. They were married in Victoria, Texas, in 1946 and shared a devoted and loving marriage for 53 years until Rudolfo's passing in 1999.

Teresa lived a long and happy life and was a source of love, strength, and wisdom for her family. Known for her gentle spirit, she never spoke unkindly of others and led by example with her kindness and compassion. A devout Catholic, Teresa was proud to instill a strong spiritual foundation in her children and grandchildren. Her faith was central to her life, and she prayed the rosary almost every day.

After raising her children, she worked for many years for the Austin Independent School District's food services department, where she was known for her warm heart and strong work ethic. Her husband missed his time with her, so he became a crossing guard, and they went to and from the school where they worked together.

Teresa was also a gifted cook- her cornbread dressing, Mexican rice and wedding cookies remain cherished family traditions. She also had a love for walking, a daily routine she kept up until just this year. Her passion for being outdoors and staying active played a meaningful role in keeping her mind sharp and spirit strong.

Teresa was incredibly proud of her large and loving family. She is survived by her children, Rudy Hernandez (Biddy) and John "Frank" Hernandez (Pilar) and her sisters Genevieve (Robert), Mickey (Refugio) and sister in-law, Bea. She was preceded in death by her daughter Vela Gonzales (Paul) and her son Michael Hernandez. Teresa was the proud grandmother of eight grandchildren, great-grandmother to 17, and great-great-grandmother to three. She treasured every moment spent with them, offering unwavering love and support.

Her ninety-five-year legacy of faith, warmth, and family devotion will live on through all who knew and loved her.

Special thanks to Rudy and Biddy Hernandez who cared for her in their home during her final years.

Services:

Visitation will be held on Wednesday June 25th from 5PM to 7PM, followed by the Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 7PM, at Harrell Funeral Home, 4435 Frontier Trail, Austin, Texas.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10AM on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at St. Ignatius Martyr Catholic Church, 2309 Euclid Avenue, Austin, Texas.

Interment will follow at Assumption Cemetery on IH35, near Ben White.