Ada Anderson Fernandez, lovingly known as Pete Fernandez by her friends, was born on October 18, 1925 in Macon, Georgia to John Samuel Anderson and Odessa White Anderson. Ada peacefully went to her heavenly home, joining her husband Robert Anthony Fernandez, her son Robert Anthony Fernandez, Jr, as well as her parents on July 10, 2020. Pete is survived by her three children: Lea Fernandez Tabler, Stephen Anthony Fernandez, and Suellen Fernandez Lindsey along with her 6 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.
Pete attended the University of Georgia and studied art, a talent she later became known for both the southwest region and throughout the great state of Texas. Her love for landscape painting on location was a result of the instruction she received from Reveau Bassett, a nationally acclaimed wildlife painter. Pete loved to paint old, abandoned barns, bluebonnets, western scenes and florals. Her paintings have been exhibited in museums in Texas and Arizona.
Irving was dear to Pete’s heart as she was a key component to the cultural and historical development of Irving. She was an honorary, lifetime member, and one-time president of the Irving Heritage Society. Pete’s pen and ink drawings of Heritage House and other historical buildings have graced the cover of many materials used by the organization. She had a major role in securing the buildings of Heritage Park, including the depot. Her love for the working artist was fulfilled when she co-founded The Main Arterie Gallery in downtown Irving. Pete fought tirelessly for the revitalization of her beloved town. Parades, pageants and various events were part of her vision and efforts. When she was not envisioning a better Irving, Pete was golfing and boating with her family, or spending time at their coastal home.
A legacy of love for family, community and the Lord will be remembered and cherished by all who were friends of Pete. In lieu of flowers, the family requests any donations be made to First Baptist Church of Irving (Children’s Ministry) - 403 S. Main St., Irving, TX 75060, Irving Heritage Society- 303 S. O’Connor Rd., Irving, TX 75060 or to the charity of your choice.
