Antonio Manuel Fernandez

Antonio Manuel Fernandez
Born: February 27, 1933
Parents: Antonio P. Fernandez and Lula Garcia
Place of birth: Kenedy, Texas
Antonio Fernandez began his education at a segregated school for Mexican-American children in Kenedy, Texas. He learned English quickly and proved to be an excellent student. While attending high school, he held a part-time job learning newspaper work at The Kenedy Advance. Antonio graduated from Kenedy High School in 1951.
Mr. Fernandez was drafted to serve in the U.S. Army in 1953. His excellent test scores led to an Army assignment with National Security. Antonio honorably served his country during the Korean War. Mr. Fernandez was discharged from military service in 1955. His honors include medals for Good Conduct, The National Defense, Korean Defense Service, Army Military Achievement, and The ROK War Service Medal. Antonio returned to civilian life and married his high school sweetheart, Genoveva Vela, in November 1955.
In the years following his military service, Mr. Fernandez participated in an organization for discharged veterans that promotes access to employment, housing and education known as The American GI Forum. He collaborated with the founder of the organization, Dr. Hector P. Garcia.
During the 1960s, Mr. Fernandez became passionate about the issues confronting the nation. He used his journalistic skills to work as editor and publisher of the Stockdale Star newspaper and report on political events. Antonio’s editorial column, This A.M., received recognition from The San Antonio Express-News for excellence in editorial writing.
Throughout the years, he has worked with various community organizations and as a paralegal. Mr. Fernandez utilized his writing and speaking skills to promote his ideas regarding civil rights and community action. He loved to talk about his ideas and discuss current events with friends, relatives, and colleagues.
A resident of Mission, Texas since 1996, Mr. Fernandez worshipped at The Bread of Life Church. Antonio is survived by his wife, Genoveva; His four children, Patricia, Antonio, Margaret and Jana; Grandchildren, Adriana, Megan, Margaret, Jayden, and Justin; Great-grandchildren: Nico, Sophia, Vivian, and Jackson.
Antonio Manuel Fernandez was a proud veteran, a husband, a father and a hero. He passed away on April 30, 2026, following a battle with Alzheimer’s disease. May he rest in peace.