Nestor Hernandez

Nestor Hernandez, of Stanton, passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 15, 2023, after battling extended illness. He was 76 years old and was surrounded by family at the time of his death. Viewing will take place from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, on Monday, June 19, 2023 at Gilbreath Funeral Home. A rosary is scheduled for 6:00 pm Monday, June 19, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Stanton. Services will be 10:00 am Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, with interment immediately following at St. Joseph Cemetery.

Nestor was born February 13, 1947, in Weslaco, Texas to Eustacio and Agnes Hernandez.  He was a combat veteran, serving in the United States Air Force as a Strategic Air Command Administrative Specialist, supporting B-52 bombers and KC-135 tankers. He was stationed at U-Tapao Airfield in Thailand during the Vietnam War.

He later served in the Army National Guard before serving as the County Executive Director of the USDA Farm Service Agency. He took great pride in helping local farmers sustain their family farms and could be seen driving a tractor most harvesting seasons. Following his retirement, he worked at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home where he took great care in providing support and compassion to families during the loss of their loved ones.

A loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Nestor gave generously to his family, his friends and his community. He had a contagious laugh that would fill the room, and the pride he had in his grandchildren was evident in every story he told. He loved others unconditionally and was a founding member of the Martin County “Coffee Club” where he had some of his fondest memories, enjoying comradery and long-standing friendships. He was also a devout member of the Knights of Columbus.

Nestor is survived by his wife, Connie Hernandez; his son, David Hernandez and wife Mona; his grandchildren, Tori Benson and husband Matt; Jalen Hernandez and fiancée Alissa Anders; and Alyssa Hernandez; and his great granddaughter, Ari Noel Benson. He is also survived by his brothers, Juan Hernandez and wife Elena; Fernando Hernandez and wife Orfa; and his sisters, Elva Rios and husband Roy; and Estolia Arriaga and husband Robert.

He was preceded in death by his son, Carlos Hernandez; his parents, Eustacio and Agnes Hernandez; his brothers, Gregorio Hernandez, Geronimo Hernandez and Rolando Hernandez.

Pallbearers will be Jalen Hernandez, Trey Hinojosa, Dante Ruiz, Chris Rangel, Anthony Rangel, Ramiro Reyes, Allen Carby and Gabriel Ruiz. Honorary pallbearers will be Lupe Hinojosa, Fortino Pinones, Danny Fryar, Steve Garlington, LeRoy Scoggins, Steve Cook, Marcelino Chavez and Dan Morales. Music will be provided by Norberto Arguello and Janie Balderama.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Hospice of Midland as well as family and friends for their words of comfort during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the National Kidney Foundation.

Arrangements are under the direction of Gilbreath Funeral Home of Stanton.  Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.

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