Julio Hernandez, age 51, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, passed away on March 3, 2024, in the arms of his wife and surrounded by his loved ones. He worked as a horseman with his brother Pedro Hernandez and brother-in-law Samuel Valdivia and for Aviagen Inc. for 20 years.
Julio fought a courageous battle against a neurological terminal illness for the past 8 years. Regardless of his pain and disability, he always had a smile on his face and lived each day to the fullest. He was kind and always there to help those who needed him. He had a contagious appetite for life. He loved his family deeply, and his laughter made you forget all your troubles. He was loved by many and will be missed dearly.
His hobbies included fishing, attending horse races, watching National Geographic, watching Jackie Chan movies, and watching Star Wars. He loved Disney World, and Chewbacca was his spirit animal. His favorite song was “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” by Creedence, and he loved to dance to “Burning Love” by Elvis Presley.
He is survived by: Spouse (Sara Hernandez), Daughters (Cecilia Hernandez and Mayra Valdivia Carlisle), Son in law (Taran Valdivia Carlisle), Siblings (Pedro Hernandez), Brother/Sister in law (Rafaela Hernandez, Luz Maria and Miguel Ruiz, Samuel & Rhonda Valdivia, Guillermo Valdivia, Jesus & Rosy Valdivia, and Anastasio Valdivia), Nieces and Nephews (Becky Hernandez & Kyle Highley, Pedro & Abril Hernandez, Sammy Hernandez, Shania & Terry Cox, Tinisha & Nick Cox, Alan & Alyssa Valdivia, Ivan Valdivia, Memo & Heather Valdivia, Efrain Valdivia, Yahaira Lopez, Elizabeth Valdivia, Sophia Valdivia, Stephanie Valdivia, Nathan Valdivia, Erick Lopez, Carolina Lopez, Juan Lopez, Angela Ruiz, Miguel Ruiz, Luz Maria Ruiz, Maria Mariscal Hernandez, and Pets (Nacho, Simba, and Taco)
Memorial service is arranged for Julio Hernandez on Tuesday March 12, 2024 at 4:00 PM at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. (2110 N Dogwood Street, Sallisaw, OK, 74955)
For family and friends from out of town. You can reach his niece Shania Valdivia at Coffman’s flowers in Sallisaw for floral arrangement at 918-235-6878.
The Family has entrusted the arrangements to Forever Memories Funeral Services, INC, Sallisaw, Oklahoma.
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