In Loving Memory of Charles Matthew Hernandez Sr.
May 18, 1956 – July 2, 2026

Charles Matthew Hernandez Sr. passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife, Rosemary, and his family.

Born and raised in Flagstaff to Joe S. Hernandez and Otillia C. Hernandez, Charles proudly dedicated 30 years of his life to working for the City of Flagstaff. But if you asked the people who knew him best, they wouldn't remember him for his job. They'd remember him as "Papa."

He was a devoted husband, an incredible dad, a proud grandpa, a coach, mentor, and friend. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome, cared for, and like they belonged. Whether you were family, a neighbor, or someone he had just met, you were treated with kindness and respect.

For many years, Charles poured his heart into coaching youth baseball at Coconino Little League and Arroyo Park, along with youth football through the Northern Arizona Youth Football Association (NAYFA). To so many kids, he was much more than a coach. He taught teamwork, respect, perseverance, and confidence, and the lessons he shared reached far beyond the field. Even years later, many still proudly called him "Coach."

When he wasn't coaching or spending time with family, you could usually find him in his workshop building, fixing, or creating something. He was known for his contagious laugh, quick smile, his secret stash of sunflower seeds and candy, and his ability to make every gathering a little brighter. His greatest happiness came from simply being surrounded by the people he loved.

Charles is survived by his beloved wife, Rosemary Hernandez; his children, Charles M. Hernandez II, Christopher Hernandez, Wil Hernandez (Katrina), Joseph Hernandez (Jessica), and Sherry Rose Rolph (Ryan); his cherished grandchildren Ashlyn, Jacob, Shaye, Cameron, Hailey, Taylor, Landon, Braydon, Gabriel, Nathaniel, Abrum, Ricky, and Bella Rose; his brother, Richard Hernandez; his sisters, Bonnie, Debra, Lillian, Patricia, and Kathy; along with countless cousins, friends, former players, and neighbors who all knew and loved him as "Papa."

He was welcomed into heaven by his parents, Joe S. Hernandez and Otillia C. Hernandez; his brother, Ronnie Hernandez; and his sister, Anna Ballentine.

Charles leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, generosity, humility, and service. His influence will continue to live on through his family, the many athletes he coached, and the countless people whose lives were made better because they knew him. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always celebrated.

Forever Rose's husband. Our dad. Our grandpa. Our coach. Our mentor. Our beloved Papa.