Leon Hernandez, Jr.

Leon Hernandez, Jr., age 84, of Topeka, KS, passed away surrounded by his family on Monday, March 23, 2026, in Topeka.

Leon was born the son of Pantaleon ‘Leon’ Hernandez, Sr., and Juanita ‘Jennie’ (Alonzo) Hernandez on June 12, 1941, in Overton, Nebraska.

He attended Curtis Junior High School and graduated in 1960 from Topeka High School. Following graduation, Leon answered the call to serve his country in the United States Navy and was honorably discharged after his service. He went on to work for many years as a dedicated forklift driver at Cargill in Topeka.

Leon was a faithful and active member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. He found joy in the open road as an avid motorcycle rider, especially on his Harley-Davidson.

Above all, Leon was the heart and foundation of his family, a true patriarch whose presence was felt in every generation. He took great pride in being actively involved in the lives of his daughter, grandson, great-grandchildren, and extended family. Leon led with quiet strength, offering guidance, love, and unwavering support. He was nurturing, encouraging, and deeply forgiving, always placing his family at the center of his life. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled and the love he so freely gave.

Survivors include his beloved wife of the home, Sandra Hernandez; daughter, Lisa Motto-Hernandez of Topeka; his grandson, Samuel (Isabel) Motto, as well as their children and Leon’s great-grandchildren, Ichiro and Valentina Motto all of Topeka. Other survivors include his seven siblings, David (Monica) Hernandez of Topeka, Raymond Hernandez of Hoyt, Jimmy Hernandez of Topeka, Michael (Franny) Hernandez of Independence, MO, Esther Sipes of Pittsburg, KS, Virginia (Richard) Tingler of Kearney, KS, Kathy (Roger, Sr.) Moore of Oklahoma; as well as a loving extended family of many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Leon Hernandez (‘J.R’.), two brothers, Albert and Daniel Hernandez.

Memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 8:30-10:00 A.M., followed by a parish rosary being prayed at 10:00 A.M., at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will follow and be celebrated at 10:30 A.M., at the church.

Memorial contributions can be made in Leon's memory to Elara Caring in care of the funeral home.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit Leon’s memorial webpage at, www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.