It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved mother, Margaret Mary Hernandez. She departed peacefully in San Antonio, Texas on April 12, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Margaret was born in Avonmore, Pennsylvania on October 12, 1938, to Frank E. and Mary Margaret Mack. She was predeceased in death by her husband, Jose G. Hernandez, and brother Franklin Mack.
After completing her education at Elders Ridge High School, Margaret joined the Women’s Army Corps. in 1957, leaving Pennsylvania to serve at Fort McClellan, Alabama. There she met Cpl. Jose G. Hernandez, whom she later married and shared fifty-four wonderful years together.
As matriarch of the family, Margaret touched countless lives with her kindness, warmth, and strength. Known by many names—Mary Margaret, Mary, Mom, Grandma, Big Grandma, Grandma Margaret, Maggie, and Marguerite—she left an enduring legacy.
She was a gifted baker and had a small successful baking business, specializing in cakes for all occasions. Her happiest moments were spent with her family and traveling with her husband.
A woman of faith, Margaret was especially proud of establishing a church food pantry that served many families in the community. Her dedication to helping others reflected her serving heart.
Above all, Margaret was a teacher. She raised her children with principles of strength, independence, resilience, and frugality, always encouraging generosity and compassion.
She is survived by her brother, Donald Mack; children, Joseph Hernandez, John (Cheryl Heikens) Hernandez, Mary (Barbara Gonzalez) Hernandez, Anna Garcia, Jo Ann (Joe) Landa, Susan (Rey) Trevino; grandchildren, PJ, Joshua, Robyn, Evan, Riley, Angel and Jeremy; 12 great grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren with one more on the way. Margaret is also survived by extended family and friends in Pennsylvania and upstate New York, whom she loved dearly.
A service in celebration of Margaret’s life will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 10:30 AM at Porter Loring Mortuary North, 2102 North Loop 1604 East. Family and friends are invited to attend and honor her memory.
Margaret had a fondness for flowers, and the family also invites donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in her memory, as it was a cause she held close to her heart.
