Don Hernandez

Don Garcia Hernández, 70, went to be with the Lord on Friday, November 29, 2024, in Abilene, Texas. Visitation will be 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM with a Rosary to begin at 7:00 PM on Thursday, December 12, 2024, in the Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel, 5750 Hwy 277 South. Funeral Services will be 10:00 AM, Friday, December 13, 2024, at St. Vincent Catholic Church, 2525 Westview. Interment will follow in the Abilene Municipal Cemetery. The pallbearers will be Francisco Ramirez, Isabel Hernandez Jr., Johnny Martinez Jr., Andy "Tice" Tapia, Daniel Florez, and Martin Godinez Jr.

Don was born on March 25, 1954, in Waco, Texas, to Ignacio Jr. and Jovita Hernández. One of 16 children, he grew up surrounded by love and the deep bonds of a large family. Don developed an early interest in boxing and excelled in the sport. At just 17 years old, he achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the Golden Gloves City of Abilene Championship, showcasing his talent and determination. Don then met Dolores while they were both working at Gooch packing company, soon after Don proposed, and while they went through many trials and tribulations they remained married for 38 years.

In addition to his athleticism, Don had a deep appreciation for life's simple joys. He enjoyed singing, walking, and spending time outdoors. Professionally, he was a skilled concrete finisher, working for Thurston H. Carter for many years. Later, he founded D&D Concrete Contractors, named after Don and Dolores, leaving a lasting legacy in the Abilene community. Don's expertise and passion were evident in the many projects he helped bring to life, and he took great pride in teaching others the trade he loved.

Don was a man of immense character, known for his kindness, dedication, and unwavering love for his family. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and brother who worked tirelessly to provide for his loved ones. His generosity and strength left a profound impact on those who knew him.

Don and Dolores were members of St. Vincent Pallotti Catholic Church then Don later became a member of Rise Church, Don was deeply rooted in his faith and took great joy in being a child of God.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Dolores Hernández; his daughter, Linda Montéz; his parents, Ignacio Jr. and Jovita Hernández; his sister, Millie Flores; and 2 twin brothers.

Don is survived by his children, Angelica Hernandez and wife Savanah, Renee Hernandez-Ramirez and husband Francisco, Tiffany Delagarza, Rufus D. Silva III, and Mickey Garcia; his grandchildren, Jocelyn Ramirez, Daniella Hernandez, Reyna Gonzalez, Marisia Gonzalez, Troy Castro, Pete Leonard Delagraza, Olga Silva, Liliya Silva, Ivan Rivera, Evangelina Rivera, ArihElle Rivera, Katelyn Garcia, Delaney Deleon, and Asalia Deleon; 10 great grandchildren; siblings, Janie Hernández, Elias Hernández, Mary Campos, Dora Martínez, Isabel Hernández Sr., David Hernández, Sandra Pennywell, Sandy Adkinson, Alice Hernández, Jovita Ramírez, Ignacio Hernández III, and Raymond Hernández; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He will be remembered for his big heart, strong work ethic, and the lasting legacy of love and faith he leaves behind.

The Hernandez family would like to show great appreciation and sincere gratitude to the staff at The Oaks of Radford Hills, for providing a safe and caring environment for Don during these last years of his life. We know he considered many of the people he met while there friends and even family. We would also like to state our exceeding appreciation for Dr. Bonnie Hayashi, who always went above and beyond to show that she genuinely cared for Don by trying everything to provide him with the best quality of life.