Francisco J. Hernandez, born on September 30, 1947, in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, passed away on April 28, 2025. He was a man of great courage, resilience, and generosity, dedicating his life to the service of others.

Francisco immigrated to Tucson, Arizona, with his family in 1956 and became a naturalized American citizen in 1964. He was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, serving on the front lines as a combat medic. Though wounded, he remained in the field hospital, continuing his mission to save lives and care for the wounded.

Following his service, Francisco channeled his passion into emergency response, volunteering with Pima County Emergency Services and the Sheriff's Search & Rescue alongside his younger brother. His professional work as an EMS technician with A&A Ambulance and Kord's Ambulance reflected his deep expertise in emergency medicine. A skilled instructor, Francisco, shared his knowledge of mountain climbing, caving, emergency care to the sick & injured, and CPR with Boy Scouts, students, and fellow rescuers. His volunteer work with the American Red Cross and American Heart Association reinforced his lifelong dedication to helping others.

Later in life, Francisco continued his mission of care as a dialysis technician, serving at the University Medical Center in Acute Dialysis and at the DFSA Chronic Dialysis Center, ensuring patients received the critical treatment they needed.

Beyond his career, Francisco had an artist's heart and a craftsman's mind. He created beauty through his artistic projects and found fulfillment in home and business renovations. His passion for creativity extended to his work as a teacher's assistant in elementary schools, where he taught arts and crafts. He nurtured young minds, instilling positive life lessons and encouraging their artistic expression. His guidance helped shape countless children, leaving a lasting imprint on their lives.

Francisco is survived by his loving daughter, Elizabeth Hernandez, who was very close and journeyed life together. He is also survived by his daughter Anna Badilla and son Frank Hernández (aka Gordo). His loving sons Juémac Hernandez and Frank Torres predeceased him. His parents Enrique Zavala Hernandez and Matilde Perez Hernandez, and sister Eglantina Lucero predeceased him too. His sister Socorro Hernández Holmes and brother Enrique Pérez Hernández, Jr. survive their brother. He is also survived by his extended family Stan Holmes (Julie), Steve Holmes (Vanessa), Eddie Lucero, Robert Lucero (Inez), Michael Lucero (Aletha), Isidoro Jacques Hernández, Monica Jacques Hernández, Enrique Jacques Hernández, III, and Ichiban.

And finally, his friends, and all those whose lives he touched through his unwavering dedication and service. His kindness, skill, and determination to help others will live on in the countless lives he saved, the students he inspired, and the knowledge he passed on.