Gustavo Enrique Hernandez

Gustavo Enrique Hernandez, M.D., of St. Simons Island, Georgia peacefully passed away surrounded by family on April 25, 2025. Gustavo (“Gus”) was born on December 3, 1934, in Barranquilla, Colombia, to Heriberto Antonio Hernandez and Rosa Maria Castillo. He spent his childhood in Colombia alongside his siblings—Aquileo, Alvaro, Julia, Gloria, and Heriberto Hernandez—building the strong family bonds that would remain throughout his life.

Gus pursued his passion for medicine by attending Javeriana Medical School in Bogotá, Colombia, where he trained in surgery. In 1962, he moved to the United States to continue his medical education and training at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine in Memphis. There, he met Barbara Zazzi, a nursing student who became the love of his life, and they married in 1965. Gus often spoke of the beautiful story of how they first met, believing it was Divine Intervention that brought them together.

Gus completed his medical training in Radiology at Vanderbilt University and began his career in academic medicine as an assistant professor at the University of Kentucky. During this time, he and Barbara welcomed their children, Jennifer and Greg, into their lives. In 1974, the family moved to Kingsport, Tennessee, a place they would proudly call home. There, Gus played a key role in establishing the Radiology Department at Indian Path Medical Center. He enjoyed an innovative and illustrious career as a radiologist during a time of rapid advancements in the field, dedicating his expertise and passion to medicine until his retirement in 2004. After retiring, Gus and Barbara made their home on St. Simons Island, Georgia.

Beyond his professional life, Gus was a passionate soccer enthusiast. He earned his USSF “B” Coaching License and coached competitive soccer teams, sharing his love for the game with athletes, including Jennifer and Greg. He also served as a licensed referee, officiating at the collegiate level. Gus’s passion for fútbol remained a vibrant and enduring part of his life.

Gus proudly served his adopted country as a Major in the United States Army, completing two tours of duty in Vietnam while stationed at Long Binh.

While Gus had a serious side that fueled his achievements, he also had a vibrant and joyful spirit that was unmistakable. Those who have spent time with him know he was quick to bring the lively zest of his Colombian heritage to any gathering, delighting in dancing Salsa, Merengue, and Cumbia—especially with his beloved Barbara. His sense of humor was always clever, a little spicy, and never failed to make others laugh.

Despite his remarkable career spanning continents, medicine, soccer, and military service, Gus considered his greatest achievement to be the love he shared with his wife, Barbara, and the pride he held for his children, Jennifer and Greg, and their families.

Gus is lovingly survived by his children, Jennifer Haynes (Ken), and Greg Hernandez (Anna). He was a proud grandfather to Caroline Shaver (Joe), Jon Henry Butler, Zara Hernandez, and Xavi Hernandez. He is also survived by his sisters, Gloria Hamilton and Julia Kirkscey, and his brother, Heriberto Hernandez (Lina).

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 55 years, Barbara Zazzi Hernandez, who passed away on September 10, 2020. He was also preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Aquileo and Alvaro Hernandez, as well as his brothers-in-law, Gayle Hamilton and David Kirkscey.

Gus was grateful for the love and special care he received from Dr. Michael Butler.

His funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, May 17 at 11:00 AM at St. William Catholic Church on St. Simons Island, GA. A reception will follow.

His warmth, his laughter, and his love for his family will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew him.