Isabelle Evangeline Hernandez

Born May 24, 1938, in Houston, Texas, to Eulalio Zarco and Aurora Ibarra Zarco, the fourth of six children, she is now reunited with her parents, sister Gloria Quinn, brothers William Zarco and Robert Zarco, husband Ruben Hernandez, Sr., and her son, Ruben (Ben) Hernandez, Jr. She is survived by her sister Margaret Rodriguez, her brother David Zarco, her loving son and devoted daughter-in-law Joel and Heather Hernandez, and many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Residing in Central Texas since 2020 with Joel and Heather, she always fiercely and proudly clarified that Houston was her real home. There, she met and married Ruben Hernandez, Sr. and together they welcomed their first son, Ruben Jr., in 1958. Nearly two decades later, they welcomed their second son, Joel.

The wife of a Baptist minister, Evangeline was deeply active in church life, serving in countless roles in local churches and congregations, the 1979 Mexican Baptist Convention, international missions trips to Mexico, Panama, Australia, and regional organizations including Houston’s chapter of the Hispanic Baptist United Choir (Coro Unido)—even well into her eighties.

Evangeline was social, feisty, warm, and hospitable, with a quick wit that made her instantly likable and earned her the affectionate title “Momma H” among multiple generations of friends. She was disciplined, hardworking, and fiercely protective of her family. Eventually even the family’s pets earned a place under her watchful, sacrificial love, provision, and protection.

A powerful example of her determination was her completion of her BA in Education from Houston Baptist University in her late fifties, while working full-time, taking care of the home, and navigating life as a newly-single mother. She advanced from teacher’s aide to bilingual education teacher within the Houston Independent School District, where she taught until her health required early retirement.

As we tearfully say “Goodbye for now”—we remember Evangeline for her love of Jesus, her devotion to her family, and her appreciation for beautiful flowers, detective shows, Houston sports teams, and, of course, delicious food. She is now forever basking in the presence of her Savior, seated at the banquet table He has prepared for her and for all who call on Him.