Gracias Rafa por estar ahí siempre como un hermano mayor te extraño mucho siempre me voy a acordar de ti.

Sending my love and prayers to the family and friends of this beautiful soul. May he rest in peace with Our Lord.

Rebecca, my heart is with you in this unimaginable moment. There are no words that can soften the pain of losing your child, especially one so young, so loved, and so deeply woven into your life. Please know that I am holding you close in thought and prayer, and I’m here to stand with you in whatever way you need.

Your son’s light, his presence, and the love he brought into this world will never fade. I hope you feel surrounded by support, compassion, and the gentle reminder that you do not have to carry this grief alone.

I’m here for you, today and in all the days ahead.

We were deeply saddened to hear of Rafael’s passing. Though our time knowing each other was brief and shaped by the uncertainty of waiting, it left a lasting mark on me.

We shared more than just a hospital hallway—we shared a quiet understanding of what it meant to wait, to hope, and to face each day with courage. I will always remember the simple greetings we exchanged, the nods and smiles that carried more meaning than words ever could. In those moments, there was a sense of solidarity—two people walking a difficult path, offering each other strength without even trying.

Your presence brought comfort. There was a spiritual bond in knowing that someone else truly understood the weight of the journey, the fragile balance between fear and hope. You reminded me, in the smallest ways, that none of us were alone.

I continue this journey with you in my thoughts. Your resilience, your quiet strength, and the kindness you shared in passing moments will stay with me. You made a difference—more than you may have ever realized.

Rest peacefully Rafael. You are not forgotten. Mac & Chris

My name  is Dedra Garcia and i had the privilege of meeting Rafael in HLTICU he always had a great smile and would always be so nice and friendly to i would go in his room and make him and his mom laugh  he was such a joy and a sweet young man i want to say that he was a fine young man and may he R.I.P in Jesus arm and may God be with the family

To have had you as a friend throughout high school was a blessing I will always be thankful for. I will keep our memories close to my heart, from sharing earbuds in class to laughing until we cried. Rafa would always put a smile on my face, especially when he would make me drawings and write me letters. I have kept every single thing he ever drew or wrote for me, and from now on I will cherish it even more and hold it closer to my heart. Thank you for everything Rafa.

Un tesoro que diosito nos presto. Su voz tierna y dulce como su energía. Sus deseos simplemente ayudar al prójimo y servir a dios. Casi nunca se quejó de su situación. Solo quería que la espera terminará... nunca imaginamos que no volvería a abrazarnos. Ahora nos toca esperar volverlo a ver en la gloria de dios. #QEPD #TQM

Rafa and I first met when we both worked at McAllisters about 5 years ago. A job I wasn’t going to take, but I believe God had me cross paths with Rafa for a reason. Back then, I had a hard exterior and never let anyone in. Rafa chipped at me everyday, trying to make me laugh or start up a conversation and eventually I let him in. That was the best decision I’ve ever made in my entire life. Rafa became my best friend and will remain the best friend I have ever had. We remained close after both leaving that job, hung out, laughed, built Legos, and spoke almost constantly. I knew I could always rely on him whether it was me calling him crying because my car died or simply being someone who would watch TV with me. He never failed to make me laugh, even during the hardest of times. I truly don’t know what I am going to do without him. Rafa taught me how to be caring, how to be a good friend, how to be reliable, how to be a better person. So much of me is him now. He is like a handprint on my heart. I will miss him every single day of my life. I love you, Rafa.

I had the great privilege of growing up with rafa. being the new kid in the neighborhood i was nervous to make friends, but with rafa we clicked so extreamly easily. he was my brother. so many summer days and nights of staying outside until the streetlights come on. he was so fun to be around, and always so funny with a laugh that can cheer anyone up. im gonna miss him so extremely much. i know hes always gonna be with me in my mind and my heart. I love you brother, rest easy now <3

My condolences to the family I’m a good friend of Victor Pardo we would like to light a candle in memory of Victor’s cousin may God bless the family and lord keep this family in your heart and comfort the family during this time of grief

I’ve known Failito since he was born, so this really hits close to home. I had the blessing of watching him grow up, and he was always a good young man. Even though he was a big, tall guy, what stood out most was his kindness. He was always respectful, easy to talk to, and just a genuinely good person.

I remember when he joined the fire department. You could see how proud and excited he was. He truly loved what he was doing and serving his community.

I’ve known his dad, Rafael, since we were kids, and I’ve also seen the love and support from all of his family throughout his life. My heart goes out to his parents and all of his family during this difficult time.

Failito left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. I will always remember him.

Rest in peace, Failito.

I’m so deeply sorry for the loss of your beloved Failito. There are no words that can truly ease the pain you’re feeling, but please know that my heart is with you during this incredibly difficult time. Failito was so loved, and that love will always remain.

I pray that God surrounds you with His peace and comfort. The Bible reminds us in Psalm 34:18, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” May you feel His presence holding you close and giving you strength day by day.

You are in my thoughts and prayers always

OBITUARY

Rafael Herrera III

February 14, 2003 – March 12, 2026

Funeraria Del Angel Hillcrest West

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