Israel Hernandez

Israel was born on June 2, 1954, in Manhattan, New York, to the late Rev. José Belén Hernandez and the late Margarita Hernandez. He spent his early childhood in the Sunset Park neighborhood of Brooklyn, where his father helped establish one of the first Puerto Rican Pentecostal churches in Brooklyn and served as its pastor. Israel was one of eleven siblings and grew up in a large, loving family rooted in faith, service, and community.

Shortly after the opening of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, the Hernandez family moved to the South Beach section of Staten Island, where Israel would reside for the remainder of his life. He also loved spending time at his home in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, a place that brought him peace, happiness, and treasured moments with those he loved most.

He is lovingly survived by his devoted wife, Maria Hernandez, with whom he shared 41 years of marriage. He also leaves behind his three children, Daniel Fiuza, Monica Hernandez, and José Belén Hernandez; his daughter-in-law, Laura Hernandez; and his cherished granddaughters, Eva, Mia Rosalie, and Elena María, who brought him immense joy and pride.

Israel is also survived by his siblings, Ernest Hernandez, Abner Hernández, Ezra Hernandez, Miriam Hernandez, Judith Delgado, and Karen Granzen Hernandez, along with many relatives and dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Israel proudly served his country in the United States Navy and dedicated 22 years of service to the Fire Department of New York. He served with Engine Company 74 in Manhattan, where he earned the respect and admiration of his fellow firefighters through his dedication, courage, and commitment to protecting the people of New York City. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who deeply loved his family, especially his beloved granddaughters.

A true American hero, Israel courageously answered the call in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. He spent countless hours working in the ruins of the World Trade Center alongside his fellow firefighters, searching for victims and honoring those who had perished. Years later, he battled cancer twice, ultimately giving his life as a result of illnesses connected to his service.

Israel will be remembered for his strength, dignity, courage, and unwavering selflessness. He dedicated his life to serving others—his family, his fellow firefighters, and his country. He was a hero not only to those who knew and loved him, but also to the nation he faithfully served.

His legacy of honor, sacrifice, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Rest in peace, Israel Hernandez. Your watch has ended, but your memory and legacy will endure forever.

Visitation will be held at Casey Funeral Home, 350 Slosson Ave, Staten Island, NY 10314, US, on June 16, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and again from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

A Funeral Service will take place at Casey Funeral Home, 350 Slosson Ave, Staten Island, NY 10314, US, on June 17, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

A Committal Service will be held at Fairview Cemetery, 1852 Victory Blvd, New York, NY 10314, US, on June 17, 2026, from 11:15 am to 11:30 am.