Pete Ralph Hernandez, 76, passed away on February 18, 2026. He was born on August 6, 1949, in Munday, Texas, to Ralph and Joyce Hernandez.

Pete honorably served in the United States Marine Corps as an infantry machine gunner with the 1st Marine Division at Camp Pendleton, California. During his service, he completed jungle warfare training in Panama and earned the National Defense Service Medal and Rifle Expert Badge. He carried the strength and resilience of a Marine throughout his life.

As the oldest of his siblings, Pete held a special place in his family. He is survived by his brothers, Ray Hernandez and Rudy Hernandez of Menard; his sisters, Cindy Gonzales of Junction, Kathy Hernandez of Junction, and Joyce Hernandez of Breckenridge. He was preceded in death by his brother, Tony Hernandez.

Pete was the father of Star Hernandez, Tracy Golden, Tina Espinosa, Julia Ewing, and Pete Hernandez. He was preceded in death by his son, Tony Hernandez of San Jose, California.

He was blessed with loving grandchildren and beautiful great-grandchildren, who brought him joy and pride.

Pete was known as the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back — and often did. He was deeply loved and will be truly missed.

At the time of his passing, he was living with his daughter, Star, in Round Rock, Texas, where he was surrounded by love and care.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Menard, Texas.

A Military Service will be held on April 24, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, Texas.

The family will provide further details.