Joe Montez Hernandez

Joe Montez Hernandez passed away on November 25, 2024, one day before his 98th birthday. He had a love for God and his family. When asked what was the secret of his long life, he would respond, “don’t worry about anything.” His calm demeanor made him successful in life. 

He was dedicated to the Catholic Church. He was active in sponsoring the Catholic Youth Organization, the Cursillo Movement in Safford, Arizona, and sang in the church choirs. He received the Sacrament of Holy Orders on June 16, 1979 in the Diocese of Tucson and served as a deacon at St. Rose of Lima Church in Safford and St. Mark’s in Phoenix. 

He served his country enlisting in the United States Army and was stationed in the Philippines. He worked until he was 95 and was quite the entrepreneur. He worked at Freeport McMoran (Phelps Dodge) for 33 years in Morenci. He owned a restaurant, had a small grocery store, worked construction, prepared taxes, and sold real estate. He loved helping people and assisted individuals with immigration papers. 

He was always very supportive of his family and was happiest at family gatherings. He will be missed greatly by his family and friends. 

He is preceded in death by his wife, Corine, and daughter, Beatrice. He is survived by his sons, Joe, Jr. and Richard and daughters, Liz (Laurel) Steele and Jeannie Saenz. He had 12 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren and 7 great-great grandchildren. 

In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Agnes Parish.

The funeral services will be held at St. Agnes Parish at 1954 North 24th Street in Phoenix on Monday, December 2, 2024. A rosary will be held at 9:30 a.m., the Holy Sacrifice of Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. followed by interment at St. Francis Cemetery.