Mary was the second eldest of six siblings born to Ambrosio and Petra G. Hernandez in Mercedes, Texas on November 2, 1949. She graduated from Brownsville High School in 1968 and went on to pursue higher education, earning a B.A. in Education from Southmost College in 1979 and a B.A. in Bilingual Education from the University of Texas–Pan American in 1980.
Shortly after completing her studies, Mary married in 1980 and joyfully welcomed her daughter, Alexandra, in late 1981.
A devoted school teacher, dancer, and traveler, Mary had once dreamed of becoming a nun. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—relaxing on the beaches of Mexico and the Bahamas, caring for her family (especially the babies), and doting on her beloved dog, Topanga.
Mary was also a proud bargain hunter who loved shopping and was always practical with money.
She dedicated over 30 years to teaching 1st grade with the Brownsville Independent School District, where she was proudly awarded as “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers” in 2007 at Garza Elementary. Mary also received numerous other awards throughout her career, including the Gifted and Talented Institute Award and Certification, the Developing Cupable People Positive Discipline Award, and a Certificate of Appreciation from St. Org for her work as a host program tutor. Even after retiring, she continued to serve her community as a substitute teacher, inspiring young minds with her passion and care.
Mary is preceded in death by her parents Mr. Ambrosio and Mrs. Petra G. Hernandez. She is survived by her brothers: Rufino Hernandez, Juan Hernandez, Jose Guadalupe Hernandez, and Ambrosio Hernandez Jr (Junior) and by her sisters: Delia Alaniz and Dora Hill. She leaves behind a large and beloved host of nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory forever.
Mary had a loving heart and a deeply caring nature. She was always checking in on her family, making sure everyone was safe and doing well. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
A visitation for Maria will be held Monday, May 19, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM with Rosary at 7:00 PM in n Chapel of Angels at Funeraria Del Angel Buena Vista, 125 Mcdavitt Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78521. A chapel service will be held Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 10:00 AM in Chapel of Angels at Funeraria Del Angel Buena Vista, 125 McDavitt Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78521. Followed by a burial at 11:00 AM at Buena Vista Burial Park, 125 McDavitt Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78521.
