David Hernandez
February 13, 1943 - November 25, 2025
David Hernandez Obituary
David Hernandez, born February 13, 1943, in San Lorenzo, Puerto Rico, passed away peacefully at his home on November 25, 2025, at the age of 82. The beloved only child of Alexander and Juanita “Jennie” Hernandez, David spent his early years in Puerto Rico before his family moved to New York and later settled in Philadelphia. He graduated from Mastbaum High School in 1961 and continued on to trade school, where he studied carpentry.
David began his working life at Passon’s Sporting Goods in downtown Philadelphia. In 1979, driven by ambition and a deep connection to his community, he opened Hernandez Sporting Goods, serving the North Philadelphia neighborhood that helped shape him. He later served as warehouse manager for Nozaki America and concluded his professional life in the education sector, providing one-on-one support to Special Education students at Willingboro High School. His work ethic, leadership, and compassion were hallmarks of his character.
Sports were woven into the fabric of David’s life. He played baseball in local men’s leagues in Philadelphia, PA and Willingboro, NJ. During the years he ran his sporting goods store, he proudly sponsored and coached the youth baseball team, The Bad News Bears, mentoring young athletes both on and off the field. For decades David was an avid bowler who participated in leagues in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania. His passion carried him far, traveling up and down the East Coast, and back to Puerto Rico to compete in tournaments that brought him lasting friendships and cherished memories. Off the lanes and away from the field, he was just as passionate, rooting for the Eagles and Phillies with the same joy and loyalty that defined his lifelong love of sports.
David’s life was rooted in family. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Carmen Hernandez, with whom he shared three children: Diana Perez, Rebecca Austin, and David Alexander Hernandez (deceased). Through his second marriage to Diane Burgos, he welcomed two more sons, Michael Hernandez and David Joshua Hernandez. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Amalia Perez, Angelea Perez, Xavier Austin, Alexis Austin, Angel Hernandez, Anneliese Hernandez, and Raiden Hernandez; and his great-grandchildren Novalee Harvey, Analise Perry, and Nolan Alexander. He is also survived by a loving extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends whose lives he touched.
David will be remembered for his kindness, humor, strength, and unwavering devotion to his family and community. His presence will be deeply missed, and his memory will forever remain a blessing.
Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2025 at 10am - 11am at the Goes - Scolieri Funeral Home, 212 Veterans Parkway, Willingboro, NJ, 08046. (609)871-1000. Interment will be private and at the convenience of his Family.