Elizabeth Hernandez

Elizabeth “Betty” Hernandez, 75, passed away peacefully on January 27th, surrounded by her family. She was born on June 22, 1949, in Edinburgh, Texas, to the late Antonio and Candida Aguilar and grew up in McAllen, Texas. 

Elizabeth Aguilar Hernandez, lovingly known as Betty or Nana, was a devoted grandmother, mother, wife, and friend. Betty earned her degree in education and a master’s in counseling from University of Texas-Pan American. She dedicated 25 years to elementary education, touching the lives of countless students at PSJA school district in Pharr, TX, and Crestview Elementary in the NKC School District as a counselor. Her warmth, compassion, and dedication to her students earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues, parents, and young learners alike. She was recognized with several awards throughout her career, including one from the U.S. House of Representatives. Her compassion and wisdom left an enduring impact on the countless students and families she supported throughout her career.

Family and friends were at the heart of Betty’s life. She cherished the moments spent with her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren, and she shared an enduring love with her husband, who was her lifelong partner and greatest source of support. Their love was a beautiful example of devotion and companionship to all who knew them. She had an infectious laugh and was incredibly thoughtful. Betty had a way of making everyone around her feel loved. Her grandkids were the light of her life, and she adored every minute spent with them. 

Betty is survived by her loving husband of 46 years, Jesse Hernandez; her devoted daughter, Vanessa, and son-in-law, Adam; her treasured grandchildren, Scarlet and Harper; her brother, Albert Aguilar, and sister, Rosie Landman; and countless friends and family members who adored her. She was preceded in death by her father, Antonio Aguilar, and mother, Candida Aguilar. 

A memorial service to celebrate Betty’s life will be held on Saturday, March 1, at 10:30 a.m., with a Celebration of Life luncheon to follow at Church of the Resurrection’s Wesley Chapel, Bldg C, 13720 Roe Ave., Leawood, KS 66224. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in Betty’s honor. Donate

Betty’s legacy of love, kindness, and devotion will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed. 

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