Anonymous
Hortensia “Tencha”(Blanco) Hernandez died peacefully at her home surrounded by her beloved family on January 17, 2020, in Santa Barbara, California. Hortensia was born on November 19, 1936 in Santa Paula, California. She was preceded in death by her parents Juan and Dolores Blanco and her younger sister Anna Blanco Mesa.
Hortensia is survived by her beloved husband of 63 years, Jose Hernandez, and their 5 children, Dolores Romo (Ernie), Joe (Mary), Raul (Jeannie), Juan and David and grandchildren Andrew, Andrea (“Gigi”), Zachary, Claire, Justine and her great grandson Xavier. She is also survived by her 6 brothers Juan (Judy), Joe (Carole), Tony (Connie), Larry, Chavito (Nora) and Richard.
Hortensia attended Santa Barbara Catholic High School and later studied cosmetology. After raising her children she started working as a teachers’ assistant at Our Lady of Guadalupe and Notre Dame Schools. She was later hired by the Santa Barbara School District at Franklin School as the school health assistant and served the school district for more than 29 years. Hortensia had a passion for nurturing and guiding the children in the schools she worked at and in 1998, she received a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition for outstanding and invaluable service to the community from Congresswoman Lois Capps.
Hortensia treasured her family, especially her grandchildren. She always encouraged the children in the family to value their education, and demonstrate good manners. She left a lasting impression on her nieces and nephews as well; encouraging them in the same compassionate way. Her faith in God was as important to her as her family. Hortensia’s family is comforted in knowing she is with her creator.
The family would like to thank Deacon Paul Rayas, her dear friend Lupe Leon and Dr. Mukul Gupta, Dr. Avery Wilmanns, Dr. Rosanna Petronella and Dr. Lance Schroeder for their support and medical care.
The funeral service will be held on January 30, 2020, 10 AM at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 21 E. Sola St. Santa Barbara, Ca.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, (800) 478-5833, https://www.stjude.org/
