Jesse Hernandez

Jesse was known for his quick wit, effortless humor, and a mind that never seemed to run out of things to share. Jesse was unapologetically himself, and life was a whole lot more entertaining with him in it. He was a deep thinker with a kind heart, and those who knew him best understood the tenderness behind his big beard and tough exterior. He was dependable and showed up for the people he loved, whether he was celebrating a major milestone or helping someone navigate a difficult season of life. He was patient, willing to listen, offer perspective, and give people room to make mistakes and grow. He was the kind of person who rooted for you, believed in you, and was willing to stick his neck out for you when you needed someone in your corner. He often saw the good in people even when others might have given up on them. Jesse's loyalty ran deep, and the relationships he maintained throughout his life were a testament to the care he had for his people.

Jesse grew up in Granger, Texas, where he attended Granger High School and graduated in 1979. He played high school football and was a proud Granger Lion. Granger remained an important part of his story, with many of his lifelong memories and family adventures rooted in the small town he called home.

After graduating from high school, Jesse went to work at American Desk in Taylor, Texas, where he spent 17 years. He worked as a lead in both the stone room and the mill, helping build desks, cabinets, and other furniture.

Jesse later went to work for Floyd's Glass Company, where he spent 23 years working as a glazier before becoming a foreman in the latter part of his career. He retired at the age of 60, but he never stopped taking pride in his work. Whenever the family passed a building where he had installed glass, Jesse would point it out and say, “I put those doors in right there.” He loved sharing those stories and making sure everyone knew which places he had a hand in building.

Jesse loved listening and singing to a wide variety of music, cruising around with his music blasting, finding new favorite taco spots, watching his sci-fi shows, quoting Star Trek, and keeping everyone entertained with his sense of humor. He was also a proud Minnesota Vikings fan in a family full of Dallas Cowboys fans, and he never missed an opportunity to give them a hard time—especially when the Cowboys lost.

Jesse was preceded in death by his parents, Juan Andres and Nicolasa Hernandez; his sister, Guadalupe (Tony Pachicano and Juan) Galban; and his brother, Juan L. Hernandez.

He is survived by his sister, Esther Moore; his brother, Bobby (Mary) Hernandez; his stepdaughter, Rita Aguilar; his stepson, Rolando Rodriguez; his nephews, Corey Hernandez and Corey Pulido; his niece, Elissa (Matthew) Hill; along with his step-grandchildren, great-nieces, and great-nephew, all of whom will carry his memory with them.

Jesse leaves behind a family who will miss his stories, his jokes, his advice, his random updates, and all the little things that made him who he was. He was one of a kind, and there will never be another Jesse Hernandez. His love lives on in the people he encouraged, the chances he gave, the memories he created, and the family he loved so deeply.

A rosary and memorial service for Jesse will be held at Providence Funeral Home in Taylor, Texas on Friday November 6th at 10 AM. Following the services, family and friends will proceed to Holy Cross Cemetery in Granger, Texas, for his burial.