SGM (Ret) Vincent D. Fernandez

Vincent D. Fernandez, 85, was born July 19, 1940, in Honokaa, Hawaii, and died May 15, 2026. A longtime resident of Columbus, Georgia, he is remembered with deep respect for a life marked by steadfast service, capable hands, and enduring devotion to those he loved.

Raised and educated in Honoka’a, Vincent attended Honoka'a Elementary and graduated from Honoka'a High and Intermediate School; class of 1958. He later earned a Bachelor’s Degree and completed additional military education—learning that reflected both a sharp mind and a determined spirit.

Vincent devoted his working life to military employment when he enlisted in the United States Army. He served with the kind of resolve that does not seek attention, but earns it. He is remembered as a brave soldier whose strength showed not only in uniform, but also in the steady way he carried responsibility and protected the people around him. Those who knew him best often spoke of how he could fix anything—an ability that seemed to come as naturally as his persistence and practical intelligence. He was an infantryman for over 29 years, also serving as an administrative specialist for almost nine years. He was decorated with numerous decorations, badges, citations, and campaign ribbons to include: the National Defense service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Purple Heart (2nd Award), Silver Star, Bronze Star Medal (2nd Award), Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation (with Bronze Star), Overseas Service Bars (4th Award), Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal (with 1960 Device), Army Service Ribbon, Army Good Conduct Medal (9th Award), Army Commendation Medal (3rd Award), Meritorious Service Medley, just to name a few.

On June 11, 1976, Vincent married his wife, Monique Mathilde Fernandez, in Bressoux, Belgium. In the years that followed, “Vincent” built a life grounded in loyalty and care, and he is remembered as a good husband who cherished his wife, his work, and the everyday comforts that made a home—fried eggs, fried Spam, and rice among them.

Vincent found enjoyment in watching hockey, fishing, and boating. He also loved time with his buddies and carried an adventurous streak that matched the courage of his military years, including service during Vietnam. Just as memorable as his competence and protectiveness was his warmth: Vincent loved to tell stories, and he loved to laugh—especially at the stories he told himself.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nicolos and Aurelia Fernandez; and his siblings, Delores Fernandez, Paulino Fernandez, Tommy Fernandez, Martin Fernandez, James Fernandez, and Julita Fernandez.

Survivors include his wife, Monique Fernandez of Columbus, Georgia; his siblings, Carmelita (Jason) Carvalho of Kohala and Michael (Alana) Fernandez of Ahualoa; his stepson, Clifford (Laraye) Martin of Seale, Alabama; as well as grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

His brother Mike shared, “he taught me how to be strong and never give up.” That steady lesson—strength, perseverance, and care for others—remains part of Vincent’s legacy.

A Funeral Service with Full Military Honors will be held at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery, 553 AL-165, Fort Mitchell, Alabama, on May 22, 2026, from 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm.