Navia T. Hernandez's Obituary
Weslaco- Navia T. Hernandez, 87, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2026, in Bay City, Texas, at the home of her sister. She was born on February 12, 1939, in Weslaco, Texas, to Federico and Soledad (Rosas) Hernandez.
Navia was raised in Weslaco alongside her nine siblings, where faith was the foundation of family life. From an early age, she attended Mass with her family at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, instilling in her a lifelong devotion to her Catholic faith.
Though Navia never had children of her own, she lovingly helped raise many of her nieces and nephews, including Ramiro Hernandez, Rey Renaud, Sandra Hernandez, and Lydia Hernandez. Her deep love for children led her to a meaningful career in education. She dedicated 26 years to teaching with the Texas Migrant Council Head Start program, traveling to states such as Indiana and Wisconsin to serve migrant families. Navia poured her heart into her students, forming bonds that lasted well beyond the classroom.
Outside of her work and volunteer efforts, Navia found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She had a special gift for nurturing plants and took pride in caring for her garden. She loved playing chalupa, where her lively and spirited personality made every game memorable. A natural dancer, Navia delighted in music and could often be found dancing with joy. She also cherished traveling, visiting places such as California, Alaska, Michigan, Canada, and various regions of Mexico.
Navia especially loved celebrating holidays, with Easter holding a special place in her heart. She delighted in decorating and planning gatherings filled with thoughtful details, always including a piñata for family and friends. Above all, she never lost sight of the true meaning of the season—her deep love for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
A devoted Catholic, Navia remained steadfast in her faith throughout her life. She was a longtime member of St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church and was known for her unwavering commitment to attending Mass, often walking to church despite physical challenges. She found great comfort in church hymns and carried a profound love for Jesus in her heart.
Navia’s kindness and compassion touched countless lives. She never met a stranger and had a remarkable ability to make others feel seen and loved. Her warmth, generosity, and enduring friendships are a testament to the beautiful life she lived.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Travis Tomek, Angels Hospice, DeeDee Vasquez of Bay City, Eva Mendoza, the staff of St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, Father Solis of Weslaco, Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, Father Gabriel Espinosa of Bay City, and her niece Jennifer Gutierrez of Lake Jackson, Texas, for their loving care and compassion.
Navia was preceded in death by her parents, Federico and Soledad Hernandez; her brothers, Pantaleon, Benito R., and Guadalupe Hernandez; her sisters, Paula Gonzalez, Cristela Mendoza, Esmeralda Hernandez, Nievea Hernandez, and Maria Hernandez; her sisters-in-law, Mary Hernandez and Herlinda Hernandez; and her beloved nephew, J.J. Hernandez, along with several nieces and nephews.
She is survived by her sister, Lupita (Daniel) Ramirez of Bay City, Texas, and numerous loving nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with a Holy Rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church. Navia will be laid to rest at Highland Memorial Park.
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