Rafael Hernandez, age 38, of Fort Stockton, Texas, passed away on December 23. He was born on July 4, 1987, in Boquillas del Carmen, Coahuila, to Hernán and Francisca (Diaz) Hernández.

He married his longtime friend on July 12, 2014, in Fort Stockton, Texas. Rafael attended Fort Stockton High School in Fort Stockton, Texas.

Rafael, known to most as Rafa, Tomate, or Guero, was a friend to those who took the time to get to know him. He was a devoted husband and a loving father who would give the shirt off his back to help others. Those closest to him will remember him for his strong work ethic and the passion he had for his animals.

In his free time, he enjoyed simple pastimes including gaming, watching anime, and fishing. Rafael was preceded in death by several family members, including his loving mother, Francisca (Diaz) Hernandez; his beautiful daughter, Anahi Hernandez; his uncle, Robert Hernandez; his niece, Leilah Hernandez; his grandmother, Cruz Gonzales Diaz; his grandfather, Juan Hernandez; and his aunt, Flora Pacheco Hernandez. Rafael is survived by his wife, Nancy Hernandez (Ontiveros); his children, Xavier Hernandez, Bradley Ontiveros, Brandon Ontiveros, Briana Ontiveros, Yaritza Hernandez, and Carlos Hernandez.

He is also survived by his father, Hernan Hernandez; his siblings, Francisca Patlan (Abraham), Juan A. Hernandez (Cynthia), Hernan Diaz Hernandez (Elsa), Sergio Hernandez (Maria), Hector Hernandez (Analiza), Sandra Hernandez, Elisa Hernandez, and Eduardo Hernandez; his grandparents, Maria Ureste Hernandez and Demetrio Diaz Brito; and a multitude of aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

Rafael will be remembered for his heart of gold. Although he is no longer with us, his love will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.