Rodolfo Hernandez

November 15, 1945 – May 22, 2025

Rodolfo “Rocky” Hernandez, beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, music, and compassion. Born in San Antonio, Texas on November 15, 1945, to Frank and Celia Hernandez, Rocky grew up with a deep sense of duty to his community and a passion for rhythm that would echo throughout his life.

A proud graduate of Edgewood High School, Rocky went on to pursue various certifications at San Antonio College. His sense of honor and commitment led him to serve in the United States Army, where he dedicated 25 years of his life in faithful service to his country. After his military career, he continued to serve his community as a Bexar County Deputy Sheriff, earning the respect of colleagues and citizens alike.

Beyond his distinguished public service, Rocky was best known by many for his vibrant musical spirit. He picked up the drumsticks at the young age of 15 and never put them down. In the early 1980s, he founded the OBG Band—short for "Oldies but Goodies"—which became a staple in the San Antonio music scene and throughout South Texas. For over two decades, Rocky and his band brought soulful tunes and heartfelt performances to the annual Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner, an event dedicated to feeding the homeless and less fortunate during the holidays.

His passion for helping others extended far beyond the stage. Known affectionately as “Rocky Claus,” he poured his heart into annual toy drives for San Antonio Christus Children’s Hospital and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, personally delivering gifts to terminally ill children during Christmas. His generosity, joy, and deep empathy brought light to countless families during their darkest hours.

Since June 19, 2014, Rocky shared his life with his devoted partner/wife, Cecilia Avila, whose unwavering love and companionship enriched his later years with warmth and joy. He was a cherished father, an amazing brother, proud grandfather, a loving uncle, and a steadfast friend—always ready with a smile, a story, or a beat to lift your spirits.

Rocky's legacy is one of rhythm, service, and an unshakeable commitment to community. He will be remembered not only for the music he made but for the lives he touched, the hearts he warmed, and the joy he spread.

He is deeply missed but will never be forgotten.

Rocky is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Celia Hernandez, and his brother, Frank “Sonny” Hernandez.

He is survived by the love of his life, Cecilia Avila; his children Cindy Sanchez, Rudy Hernandez Jr., Pat Navejas (John Navejas), Erica (Lee) Hernandez, and Eric “Nicco” Hernandez, Diane Martinez (Juan Martinez) (3 step-children,); his grandchildren Gia, Jayla, Joseph, Mikayla, Rudy III, Jesus, Joshua, Victoria, Venessa, Isaac, Chloe, Sophia, Josiah and an abundance of step-grandchildren; his sisters Rose Mary Alais, Dolores Hernandez, Estela Ruth Lindsey, Dora Alice Hernandez Ybarra; his brothers Ben Henry Hernandez (Darlene Hernandez) and Richard Hernandez; his countless great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, all of whom brought immense pride and joy to his life.

Pallbearers will be:

Eric “Nicco” Hernandez

Rudy Hernandez Jr.

Ben Hernandez Jr.

Joey Anthony Ybarra

Josiah Aaron Mata

Juan Martinez

Rosary and Visitation will be held at Sunset Funeral Home (1701 Austin Hwy, San Antonio, TX, 78218) on Monday, June 16th, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM with viewing for immediate family only from 4:00 to 5:30 PM and Rosary from 6:30 to 7:30 PM.

Viewing and Mass will take place at St. Mary Magdalen Church (1710 Clower St., San Antonio, TX 78201) on Tuesday, June 17th, with viewing at 11:00 AM, followed by Mass at noon.

Final resting for Rocky will conclude at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery (1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209), where he will be laid to rest with full military honors at 2:30pm

A Tribute & Celebration of Life reception for Rocky will be held at the VFW Post 76 Hall - New hall located outside of post (10 10th St, San Antonio, TX 78215) from 3:00 to 8:00PM for refreshments, memories, and music. Gathering will then be moved outside to VFW grounds near picnic tables and stage.

Arrangements are made possible by Sunset Funeral Home.

The Hernandez Family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the medical staff at the Audie L. Murphy Memorial VA Hospital, Medical Center in San Antonio, TX, for their compassionate care and support during Rocky’s final days.