Orlando M. Hernando

Dr. Orlando Maravillas Hernando was born on February 8, 1927 in Iloilo City, Philippines to Fernando and Feliciana Hernando, who preceded him in death. Orlando joined his heavenly Father in Eternity on November 30, 2013 in Moore, Oklahoma. He was 86 years old. As his spirit left this earth, he was surrounded by his loved ones praying and singing hymns.

Orlando is survived by his wife, Charlene; 9 children: Liza Grace Perez (Steve) of Las Vegas, NV; Nina Joy Tañada (Johnnie) of Iloilo, Philippines; Christine Mae Hernando of Iloilo, Philippines; Susan Fern Hernando of Las Vegas, NV; Kent Denney (Anita) of Lumberton, NJ; Patricia Hernando Brooks (Joe) of Louisville, KY; Beverly King (Ricky) of Germantown, OH; Felicia Hernando (Glen Robinson) of Moore, OK and Jamie Hernando of Moore, OK; 13 grandchildren: Elizabeth Burchell, (Jeremy) of Tampa, FL; Ryan Denney (Lindsay) of Coral Springs, FL; Thomas and Lindley Brooks of Louisville, KY; Jonathan, Andrew, and Jacob King of Germantown, OH; Kyla, Rece, and Jace Barkley of Moore, OK; Justin and Janine Tañada of Iloilo, Philippines; Angela Hertel of Greenville, SC; 1 sister: Leticia Hernando of Iloilo, Philippines; 1 sister-in-law, Margaret Spivey (Jonathan) of Amarillo, TX and many nieces and nephews.

Orlando was preceded in death by his 2 brothers: Roberto and Ismael; 1 sister: Gloria, and 2 sisters-in-law: Letha Johnson and Evelyn Luellen.

Orlando was a man who was blessed with a great passion for reading, writing and lifelong learning. He earned his first Bachelor of Laws degree from Central Philippine University. He was a member of the Supreme Court of the Philippines. In 1964, He earned scholarships which allowed him the opportunity to further his studies in the United States at Kansas State University and the University of Oklahoma. He earned multiple post graduate degrees including his PhD in political science. He was admitted to practice as an attorney in the Philippines, the state of Indiana, the US District Court of Oklahoma, appellate court and federal court.

Orlando spent his professional career as a trial lawyer, paralegal, appellate lawyer and professor. His intelligence, vast legal knowledge and expertise were highly respected, valued and frequently sought after by many colleagues, employers and friends. He was an advisor and also a friend.

Orlando’s love for life and his family was evident in all he did. He married his life partner and best friend, Charlene, in 1981. Together they blended two separate families and became one. He was a devoted, loving father and becoming a Lolo(grandfather) was his pride and joy. He lived his life as an example of Christ. He was a man of God and a man of prayer.

Orlando was a man with diverse interests. Some of his favorite hobbies included sports (tennis, soccer, any OU sport), thrift store shopping and cultural arts especially opera, classical music and musicals. He loved singing and was often heard breaking into song. He would fill the church rafters with his booming bass voice. He was a superior cook and baker. He constantly shared his gift of hospitality with all those around, whether he knew them or not. He never met a stranger.

Orlando leaves behind a rich legacy of faith, love and family. He will be remembered as a true gentleman and a scholar. He touched many lives and will be greatly missed by all.