Patricia (Tricia) Lynn Hern

Patricia (Tricia) Lynn Biencourt Hern went to be with her Heavenly Father on December 21, 2023, with her beloved daughters at her side. Born on January 17, 1953, in San Antonio, Tricia was the daughter of the late Marie Anderson Biencourt and Julius Ernest Biencourt. Young people like to think about what they’ll be when they grow up, but when she was in first grade, Tricia knew: She would be a teacher and mother. A love of children defined Tricia’s life—professionally, personally, and spiritually.

Tricia graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1971. She went on to study elementary education and English at The University of Texas at Austin, where she graduated in 1975. Following graduation, she taught kindergarten as well as the first and second grades. For Tricia, teaching wasn’t simply a job, but a calling. She always reflected on her years in the classroom as a meaningful time during which she could positively and creatively guide her young students.

In 1982, Tricia first experienced the gift of having children of her own, becoming a “mommy” to Kelly, and then again to Kristin in 1987. Her girls were the greatest joys of her life, and she was so grateful the Lord chose her to be their mother. As Kelly and Kristin were growing up, Tricia volunteered with their schools and activities; made holidays as well as “everydays” fun and memorable; and loved them with her whole heart. Tricia’s daughters and many other loved ones fondly remember her loving, generous spirit, as well as her spiritual gift of hospitality.

Tricia’s favorite holiday was Easter because on that day at nine years of age, she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. Whichever church she attended at various seasons in her life, she became involved in many different areas. Of course, her favorite faith-based volunteer opportunities related to teaching: Tricia loved teaching Sunday school and summertime Vacation Bible School. She also enjoyed participating in Bible studies and Bible Study Fellowship. She was a faithful prayer warrior, and friend to many—everyone who knew her loved her.

In 2015, her first grandchild was born, and Tricia became “Grammy.” She always said, “Nothing in life could be better than that.” She had three precious grandsons whom she loved dearly. She spent as much time as she could with them, absolutely cherishing that time. Her grandsons will have many happy memories of their Grammy, who was endlessly caring, attentive, and patient with them.

Tricia was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Marie, who died at birth; and her brother, Julius, who died as a toddler. She is survived by her daughter Kelly Leddy, her husband Charles, and their sons Drake and Anderson; and her daughter Kristin Rutherford, her husband Kristopher, their son Hayes and their soon-to-be-born daughter.

Her memorial service will be held at the Wilson Chapel at First Baptist Church San Antonio, Texas, at 1:30 in the afternoon on January 8, 2024. For those unable to attend, may click here to watch the livestreaming.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Tricia’s name to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.