Obituary of Justina N. Hernandez

In Loving Memory of Justina Hernandez
April 13, 1935 – July 2, 2025

Justina Hernandez, age 90, of Rochester, NY, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and unwavering love for her family and community.

Born on April 13, 1935, in Cayey, Puerto Rico, to Domingo Hernandez and Juana Cruz, Justina was one of ten siblings in a close-knit family. She brought the rich traditions and values of her Puerto Rican heritage with her when she relocated to Rochester, NY — a place she would call home for decades.

Justina dedicated over 25 years of her life to serving children and families through her work in Foster Care in Monroe County. Her warmth, compassion, and commitment left a lasting mark on countless lives. Alongside her beloved husband, Ismael Perez, she also owned and operated Justina’s Mini Market, a cherished neighborhood store known not only for its offerings, but for the care and community spirit it fostered.

A devout woman of faith, Justina was a longtime member of St. Michael’s Church, where she found spiritual grounding and a strong sense of belonging from the moment she arrived in Rochester.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband, Ismael Perez; sons James “Jimmy” Nuñez and Juan “Johnny” Nuñez; daughter Maria Sanchez; and siblings Juan Hernandez, Josefina Baldrich, Cristino Cruz, and Heriberto Cruz.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Carmen Nunez-Rivera and Gladys Nunez-Garcia; her siblings Leduvina Castro, William (Matilda) Cruz, Francisca Delgado, Teresa Washington, and Marcelina Cruz; and a legacy of many adoring grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family and friends who will carry forward her spirit, values, and stories.

To know Justina was to feel welcomed, loved, and seen. She was the heart of every gathering — a woman of strength, laughter, and deep wisdom. Her love of cooking, storytelling, and caring for others will live on in the many lives she touched.

A visitation for Justina will be held Monday July 7th, 2025 from 4-7pm at Falvo Funeral Home, 1395 North Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14609. A Catholic Mass honoring Justina will be held Wednesday July 9th, 2025 at 9:30 at St Michael’s Church, 859 North Clinton Ave, Rochester, NY 14605. A graveside service will immediately follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Her legacy is one of faith, family, and service — and it will continue to shine brightly in all who were blessed to know her.