Sarah Esther Hernández Velázquez

Sarah Esther Hernández Velázquez, 79, of Lancaster, passed in the presence of her children into the peace of the Lord in her home on Thursday, June 11, 2026. Born in Humacao, Puerto Rico, she was the daughter of the late Cruz (Velazquez) and Salvador Hernandez. She was a woman of strong faith who faithfully attended San Juan Bautista Catholic Church where she was involved in the Cursillo movement; a worldwide movement of lay members evangelizing the gospel as well as counseling angels & Hispanic bereavement ministry of the church.

In the summer of 1969, she immigrated from Puerto Rico to the United States with the dream of providing for her family. She proudly raised each of her children as a single mother to become professionals and leaders in the surrounding communities. More than anything she had a deep love of being a grandmother; not only to her own grandchildren but to any child. Always accepting those for who they were and advocating for those who she crossed paths within her lifetime was a gift Sarah very much possessed. Her hard work and dedication connected local immigrants with numerous necessary resources so they could hit the ground running. Cooking was her love language. Her chicken soup & turkey stuffing were the dishes that won the hearts with whom she shared her table. She taught valuable lessons to her children such as the grit of hard work and always showing kindness to others.

Surviving are four children; SFC (Ret.) Jose L. husband of Aida Perez, Father Luis R. Rodriguez, Silmarie Rodriguez, Agustin S. husband of Samantha Cuascut, eight grandchildren, as well as five great grandchildren. Preceding her in passing are her siblings, Jesus, Jose, Felicita, Juanita, Carlos, Raphael, Ana, Margarita and Virginia.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a viewing at Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory, 414 East King Street, Lancaster Pa 17602 on Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 5:00-8:00 PM with the rosary beginning at 7:00 PM. A mass of Christian burial will be held at San Juan Bautista Catholic Church, 425 South Duke Street, Lancaster, Pa 17602, on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 11:00 AM. There will be a time of visitation at the church from 10:00 AM until the time of mass. Interment will be in St. Joe New Catholic Cemetery. Those desiring may send memorial contributions in Sarah's memory to either Compassus Hospice or to San Juan Bautista Catholic Church Summer Camp, 425 South Duke Street, Lancaster, Pa 17602.