Xavier Hernandez Jr. was born on April 30, 1982 to the parents of Lavern James and Xavier Hernandez. In June of 2000 he enlisted into the United States Army where he maintained active duty until his honorable discharge in 2004. Xavier served as a Radio Operator in the 100th Engineering Company of the 82nd Airborne Division in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. During his time in the military he served two tours in Afghanistan. 

Shortly after his military discharge, Xavier began his battles with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Burdened with the emotional trauma and images of his years at war Xavier attempted to seek help to address his condition; however, unbeknownst to him was the reality that his time to shine as a hero again would only exacerbate his condition.

In 2013, Xavier’s heroism was tested again. Being the victim of domestic violence, Xavier’s mother attempted to leave her abuser. On June 10, 2013, her abuser entered into the family’s home carrying a gun. Xavier assisted with getting his younger siblings safely out of the home and when attempting to protect his mother was shot in the leg. It was at this time the perpetrator opened fire on his mother and then proceed to kill himself. As a result of this incident, Xavier’s mother died from medical complications related to the gunshot wounds.

Being an individual that already struggled with symptoms of PTSD, after witnessing the murder of his mother and coping with her death, Xavier’s outlook on life changed drastically. Over the course of the past few years he fought to gain a sense of normalcy and peace. On Tuesday, July 24th, 2018, Xavier’s will to fight was succumb by his desire to be free and he attempted suicide. After a long battle, Xavier died on Tuesday, July 31st, 2018 at 4:37 AM due to medical complications as a result of his attempted suicide.

As a family, we are seeking financial assistance to help ensure that Xavier receives a proper burial and one worthy of the hero that he was. We welcome any monetary donation and will ensure that the funds will be used to uphold Xavier’s memory and his legacy.

08/08/2018: Update-funds were pulled from the GoFundMe account to apply to paying Boyds Funeral Home for the funeral arrangements. Thanks so much for supporting my family and myself. We really do appreciate all of you.

Xavier Hernandez