Deacon Santos Hernandez, Jr., a faithful man of God, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 20, with his wife and family by his side. Santos, or Sandy as he was affectionately called, was born on January 23, 1947, in Corpus Christi, Texas. The middle of three children, he was brought up with love and faith. He was a devoted husband, father, uncle, nephew, brother and friend. He was a well loved and respected Deacon of Holy Angels Catholic Church in OKC, OK. He was baptized and confirmed at Holy Family Catholic Church in Corpus Christi, TX. He worked at the first Whataburger ever built, which began his lifelong passion for the #1 with cheese, no onions, hot fries and a large Coke. He loved to sing and was the tenor and shortest member of his high school barbershop quartet.

He began his career as a jeweler's apprentice in San Antonio. He met Margarita, the love of his life, while apartment hunting. He even called his mother on their first date from a phone booth to tell them he had found the girl he was going to marry. They gave birth to their first two children in Texas, then moved to Oklahoma City where they welcomed their third child in 1975.

Santos worked as a master jeweler and diamond setter for over 40 years. Following his retirement, he lived his first Cursillo, where he heard his calling and became a dedicated member of Holy Angels Church. He furthered his dedication and was ordained as a Deacon in in 2006. He served the Holy Angels families for nearly 10 years and baptized over 2800 children and adults. Santos enjoyed volunteer work as a chaplain for Integris Hospital and Deaconess Hospital. His hobbies included carpentry, painting, playing guitar, singing, bonsai gardening, wood carving, collecting and more.

In addition to his parents, Santos was preceded in death by his brother, Jose Guadelupe Hernandez and his beloved granddaughter, Sarahi Martinez-Hernandez.

He is survived by his wife of 57 year, Margarita Hernandez; his three children, Victoria Hernandez, John Albert Hernandez and Ana Lisa; his four grandchildren who were graced with his constant, loving presence, Isabella Rodriguez, Ella Barnhill, Josue Hernandez and Jake Hernandez; his sister, Gloria; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.