Heritage Funeral Home of The Big Bend

01/01/2026

Happy New Year!

12/31/2025

As this year comes to a close, we pause to remember the lives we’ve honored and the families we’ve served. Thank you for trusting us with what matters most.

12/29/2025

Start the new year with peace of mind.
As you set goals for the year ahead, take this moment to plan for what matters most, protecting your loved ones and ensuring your wishes are honored.

Resolve to plan ahead today.

12/27/2025

Rafael Hernandez

Rafael Hernandez, age 38, of Fort Stockton, Texas, passed away on December 23, 2025.

He was born on July 4, 1987, in Boquillas del Carmen, Coahuila, to Hernán and Francisca (Diaz) Hernández. He married his longtime friend on July 12, 2014, in Fort Stockton, Texas. Rafael attended Fort Stockton High School in Fort Stockton, Texas.

Rafael, known to most as Rafa, Tomate, or Guero, was a friend to those who took the time to get to know him. He was a devoted husband and a loving father who would give the shirt off his back to help others. Those closest to him will remember him for his strong work ethic and the passion he had for his animals. In his free time, he enjoyed simple pastimes including gaming, watching anime, and fishing.

Rafael was preceded in death by several family members, including his loving mother, Francisca (Diaz) Hernandez; his beautiful daughter, Anahi Hernandez; his uncle, Robert Hernandez; his niece, Leilah Hernandez; his grandmother, Cruz Gonzales Diaz; his grandfather, Juan Hernandez; and his aunt, Flora Pacheco Hernandez.

Rafael is survived by his wife, Nancy Hernandez (Ontiveros); his children, Xavier Hernandez, Bradley Ontiveros, Brandon Ontiveros, Briana Ontiveros, Yaritza Hernandez, and Carlos Hernandez. His grandson Xavier Hernandez, Jr., his father, Hernan Hernandez; his siblings, Francisca Patlan (Abraham), Juan A. Hernandez (Cynthia), Hernan Diaz Hernandez (Elsa), Sergio Hernandez (Maria), Hector Hernandez (Analiza), Sandra Hernandez, Elisa Hernandez, and Eduardo Hernandez; his grandparents, Maria Ureste Hernandez and Demetrio Diaz Brito; and a multitude of aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

Rafael will be remembered for his heart of gold. Although he is no longer with us, his love will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

The family invites all who knew and loved Rafael to join in celebrating his life and legacy. A public viewing will take place at Heritage Funeral Home of the Big Bend Chapel on December 29, 2025, from 10:00 AM, followed by a Rosary service at 7:00 PM that same evening. A Mass in Rafael's honor will be held at Saint Agnes Catholic Church on December 30, 2025, at 10:00 AM, leading to his graveside service and burial at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery at 11:30 AM.

Pallbearers:

Hernan Hernandez, Hernan Diaz Hernandez, Eduardo Hernandez, Hector Hernandez, Sergio Hernandez, Juan Antonio Hernandez, Bradley Ontiveros, Hernan Rios Hernandez

View Rafael Hernandez's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/26/2025

Even the smallest note can bring great comfort.
Taking time to send a thank-you note after a funeral is a heartfelt way to acknowledge the love, support, and kindness shown during a difficult time.
Today on National Thank You Note Day, we’re reminded of the healing power of gratitude.

12/25/2025

To the families we have served,

As the Christmas lights begin to twinkle and the gentle hush of the season settles over our community, I find myself reflecting on the past year and the many moments we have shared together. Since I first walked the halls of Heritage Funeral Home, the trust you placed in us during some of life’s most tender and challenging times has become a profound source of purpose and gratitude for me.

Each farewell we have honored together has reminded me of the deep strength, love, and resilience that families like yours embody. It is a humbling privilege to have walked beside you—listening, supporting, and helping to preserve the cherished memories of those who have touched our lives. Your courage and kindness have left an indelible imprint on my heart, and I am deeply thankful for the honor of serving you.

During this season of hope and renewal, I wish you and your loved ones a peaceful Christmas filled with gentle moments, warm embraces, and the comforting presence of those who hold you dear—whether near or in spirit. May the new year bring healing, joy, and countless blessings to each of your homes.

From my heart to yours—thank you for allowing Heritage Funeral Home to be a part of your family’s story. Please know that we remain here for you, today and always, with compassion and open arms.

With sincere gratitude and warm holiday wishes,

Brooke
Provisional Funeral Director
Heritage Funeral Home

“The light of Christmas is not found in the gifts we give, but in the love we share.”

12/25/2025

The holidays shine brightest in the light of cherished memories. Wishing you comfort and warmth this season.

12/23/2025

The holidays can be especially difficult for those who are grieving. In this video, grief counselor Dr. Alan Wolfelt offers guidance on supporting a grieving friend during the holiday season. We invite you to watch, reflect, and share with anyone who may find comfort in these words.

This video with Dr. Alan Wolfelt explores how to be support your friends and family who are grieving during the holiday season.

12/23/2025

Heritage Funeral Home of the Big Bend is honored to receive the 2025 Fort Stockton Pioneer Best of the Best Award.
We are deeply grateful to the families who have trusted us to walk beside you during life’s most difficult moments. Our staff sincerely appreciates the continued support of our community, and we extend our warmest wishes for a safe and happy holiday season.

12/21/2025

Every memory is a light that continues to shine.
On this National Remember Me Day, we invite you to share a favorite memory of a loved one you’ve lost. A story, a smile, or a simple moment you’ll never forget.
Let’s fill this space with love, remembrance, and the legacies they left behind.

12/21/2025

Mario Lopez

Mario Olguin Lopez, a true cowboy was born on December 13, 1925, in Mexico. He passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025, in Fort Stockton, Texas, surrounded by his beloved family in the comfort of his home.

A proud cowboy at heart, Mario embodied the spirit of determination and resilience. His life was marked by numerous accomplishments, most significantly marrying the love of his life, Theodora "LoLa" Lopez, on February 9, 1950. This union brought forth a family bound by love and mutual respect.

Mario was a man of remarkable determination. He often shared with his family a profound conversation he had with God, expressing his wish to live to the age of 100—an aspiration he proudly achieved, celebrating his centennial birthday. His longevity was not just measured in years but in the healthy, vibrant life he led, refusing to be confined by illness.

His legacy will forever resonate through the lives of those he loved dearly. Mario is survived by his devoted sons, Jesus and his wife Blanca Lopez, and Mario Lopez Jr. His cherished daughter, Maria, and her husband Manuel Gonzales, along with 12 adoring grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren, carry forward the love and values he instilled in them.

Preceding him in death are his beloved parents, Carolina and Alfonso Lopez, who laid the foundation for the family legacy he cherished. He also mournfully remembers his late wife, Theodora "LoLa" Lopez, whose memory has been a source of comfort and inspiration for Mario's family. His brothers, Raul and his wife Elva Lopez, and Justo and his wife Rosa Lopez, along with a daughter, Carolina D. Lopez, have also met their maker before him. Additionally, his daughter-in-law, Damiana Lopez, is remembered fondly.

A series of services to honor and celebrate Mario's life will be held at Heritage Funeral Home of the Big Bend Chapel, where family and friends can come together to reflect on the many beautiful memories shared. A viewing will take place on December 21, 2025, from 2:00 PM until 7:00 PM, followed by a Rosary beginning at 7:00 PM. The final Mass will be held at Saint Agnes Catholic Church on December 22, 2025, at 10:00 AM, with burial to follow at St Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Mario Olguin Lopez was more than just a man; he was a testament to living life fully and joyously. His spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace, as his legacy continues to inspire love and strength within his family.

View Mario Lopez's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/20/2025

Today we celebrate the trailblazers of the United States Space Force, America’s newest military branch, guarding the final frontier.
Happy Birthday, U.S. Space Force!