Francisco Fernandez

Francisco Fernandez, born December 10, 1936, entered eternal rest on January 11, 2026. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, Marine veteran, and man of unwavering faith, Francisco lived a life rooted in service, love, and perseverance.

For 65 blessed years, Francisco was married to the love of his life, his wife, Irma. Together they did everything—serving their church and hospital, sponsoring Candy Stripers, and remaining actively involved in their community. Their partnership was a testament to commitment, faith, and shared purpose. Francisco proudly served as a United States Marine and carried those values of discipline and dedication throughout his life. A skilled mechanic who specialized in automotive air conditioning, he was always ready to help others—especially his family—by taking care of every car need with care and pride. A strong advocate for community involvement, Francisco was often seen participating in cancer walks and volunteering at his children’s schools. He gave tirelessly of his time, always doing as much as he could for those he loved and those in need. His faith was the cornerstone of his life. He attended church every Sunday, read the Bible (often alongside the newspaper), and lived by the words he frequently quoted: “Jesus Christ.” One of his guiding scriptures was Joshua 1:9, a verse he embodied through courage, strength, and steadfast belief.

Francisco taught his children to pursue a career, to read, to be advocates, to help others, to hold fast to their faith, and to never give up. He cherished time with his family—watching the Olympics together, enjoying holiday parades, and cooking the Thanksgiving turkey every year. An avid golfer, Francisco took every chance he could to be on the course and lovingly passed that joy on by teaching his grandchildren how to golf. He was a constant presence in their lives, faithfully taking them to school and treating them to ice cream afterward—simple moments that became lasting memories. Francisco Fernandez will be remembered for his deep faith, generous heart, tireless service, and unwavering love for his family.

He is survived with deep sorrow by his wife, Irma Leal Fernandez; seven children, Iris (Felix Ramirez +) Fernandez, Abigail Fernandez (Edison +) Diloy, Miriam Fernandez, Francisco Fernandez Jr., Benjamin (Elvia) Fernandez, Celia (Jessie Candelaria) Fernandez, Rene (Cynthia) Leal; fifteen grandkids; eleven great grandkids; many more family and friends.

He is welcomed in heaven by his son, Xavier Fernandez.

A viewing will be at Funeraria Del Angel in Mission on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 5pm to midnight with a prayer service at 7pm. Funeral service will be at 12:30pm in the chapel followed by burial at RGV State Veterans Cemetery.