Martha R. Hernandez

Martha (Martita) was born in Eagle Pass, Texas in 1929, she is the second daughter of six children born to Joseph Z. and Julia O. Rodriguez, both preceded in death; Sister Josephina preceded in death, David, Rebecca, Alicia, Victoria and Daniel. Mom's childhood was rich with great loving, God fearing and hardworking, parents. They had many a struggle and adventure as her family migrated from the border town to settle in Yakima Valley. As a young girl in Texas, mom would often cross the border to Mexico to buy food to make their money stretch. Mom's dad, Jose' went from migrant farm worker to farm owner much with the help of my mom, Josie and David. Mom and Josie were asked to help work on the farm so the younger kids could finish school, a choice that gave her a strong work ethic so her own kids would never go through that.

Mom's childhood stories and that of some of her siblings conclude that she was the wise child that every parent prays for but few receive.

Early, she discovered a love of preparing food from the family farm; from pen to table! She lovingly used this talent to bless her family, friends and the many guests who entered her home. Anyone who knew mom, knew that she made abundances of various foods that her kitchen and pantry and smells were like a restaurant. She made many fabulous Mexican dishes, salsas, tortillas, canned fruits and vegetables and desserts. We were all very blessed as she did this for many years. Never once did I hear her complain.

Many fond memories are held in her kitchen, garden, and holidays. She created an atmosphere of love, respect, comfort, laughter and smiles that will be carried on by her children to carry on her legacy. She was also a great conversationalist, listener, counselor, and the truest friend one could imagine.

Mom was an amazingly devoted mother to her 9 children: Pete E Hernandez Jr., Rachel Hernandez, who passed away early this same year, Noah Hastings, Mary Roberts, Trini Hernandez, Diane Barela, Linda Harris, Virginia Shuel and Elizabeth Hume, and her loving dog, Rudolpho. She held very special relationships with all of her children's spouses and was a loving and devoted grandmother to her beloved grandchildren: Ruby, Pete Hernandez III, Jacqueline DeCausin (preceded in death), Jessica Holbook,

Treasure and Randal J. (RJ) Harris, Joshua Barela, Stephanie and Ryan Shuel, Tiara, Trini Jr., Alexis, David, Johnny and Shannon. She also leaves behind 8 great grandchildren.

We are greatly blessed to have been born to a woman of great honor. Anyone who knew Martha, knows of her loving-kindness, compassion, gentle, generous, and God loving nature, that is her legacy (and would make her blush).

Special thanks to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for blessing us with such a wonderful mother, grandmother, daughter, sister (and in-law), auntie and friend. God bless you Mamita. "Dios de bendiga !”

Arrangements under the direction of Keith & Keith Funeral Home, Yakima, WA.