Manuel Hernandez

Manuel R. Hernandez, 94, of Abilene, TX passed away Tuesday, March 22, 2022, in Abilene after a courageous battle with cancer.

A visitation will be on Thursday, March 24, 2022, at 6:00 PM with a Rosary being held from 7:00 to 8:00 PM at the Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel, 5750 US HWY 277 S., Abilene, TX. A funeral service will be held Friday, March 25, 2022, at 11:00 AM at Holy Family Catholic Church, 5410 Buffalo Gap Rd., Abilene, TX 79606. Interment will follow at Elmwood Memorial Park.

Manuel was born on November 10, 1927, in Abilene, TX., to the late Julio Hernandez and Cecilia Rodriguez Hernandez. He married his true love, Angelina Franco on September 22, 1945, and they were blessed with 53 years together until her passing in 1999. Manuel trained and worked as chef for many years at the Abilene Country Club and Fairway Oaks Country Club.  He was a devout Catholic and member of Holy Family Catholic Church and a 4 ^th degree member of the Knights of Columbus.

Manuel was well known in the Abilene community as a pioneer in Hispanic Radio. He obtained a broadcasting license after studying at Abilene Christian College, (now Abilene Christian University). Manuel’s first opportunity came from KWFA AM in Merkel, TX., the general manager gave him the opportunity to host a part time Spanish language program on a part time basis called “El Programa con Manuel Hernandez”. He played the latest “en la musica Chicana” or “Tex Mex” now known as “Tex Mex”. Manuel moved on to host a one-hour Spanish language program on KRBC 1470 AM on Saturdays and Sundays. He also promoted dances and brought many Hispanic artist and Tejano groups throughout the area. Later he hosted a 2 hour show on Cable channel 7 promoting many local artists. Manuel remained very active in the community and was proud to be a chartered member of the League of United Latin American Citizens, Council 605. His contributions and memory will live on through his family, many dear friends and will always be remembered as a good neighbor.

Manuel is survived by his daughter; Linda Ybarra; grandchildren, Steve Ybarra, Julian “Butch” Hernandez III, Grace Roseberry, and husband Robert; great grandchildren, William Julian Roseberry, and Lucero “Luke” Roseberry; numerous extended family and friends.

Manuel was also preceded in death by 2 sons, Julian Hernandez and Manuel “Boonie” Hernandez and several brothers and sisters.