Billy Hernandez

Billy Hernandez Martinez, lovingly known as "Billy the Kid," was a beacon of joy and a pillar of strength to his family and community. Born on March 8, 1977, in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, Billy was a vibrant soul who mastered the art of living life to the fullest. He spent 22 cherished years in Tampa, Florida, making a home with his beloved wife, Carmen Cruz Hayes, whom he married on June 6, 1998. Billy's passion for life was as infectious as his humor. He was a man who wore many hats - a supportive father, a loyal friend, a dedicated church member, a mechanic and autobody technician, and a funny companion who could always make you laugh.

Billy was a man of numerous talents and interests. He worked as a truck driver, delivering goods to certain parts of the country, and when he wasn't on the road, he was indulging in his diverse hobbies. Music was at the heart of Billy's life. He loved to play the cuatro and his DJ equipment, mixing beats and songs, bringing life to every gathering. He was a man who loved working with his hands, whether it was tinkering with his beloved Skyline, drawing graffiti, or playing dominoes. He was an avid collector of baseball cards, a loyal wrestling and baseball fan, and a lover of movies and TV shows which he enjoyed watching with his kids. Billy's zest for life was evident in his love for the outdoors, often seen riding his bike down Bayshore or taking mini trips with his family.

Billy's dedication to his faith was genuine and profound. A devout Christian Pentecostal, he served as a drummer and percussionist on the worship team at Mission Maranatha A/D for 15 years, and later attended and supported Ebenezer church. He was a teacher for the young boys ministry, Royal Rangers, and assisted in other ministry groups like Sunday School, Children's Church, and Missions. His favorite worship song was "Alaba a Dios" by Danny Berrios, a testament to his strong faith and commitment to his religious community.

Billy leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter. He is survived by his wife Carmen Cruz Hayes, his children Victoria, Ezequiel, Joel, and Daniel Hernandez, his parents José Hernandez Borrero and Myriam Hernandez, his sister Mitzie Hernandez, and nieces Wilmarie and Dayanara Lopez, and much extended family from New York and Puerto Rico. His memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew him.

As we remember Billy, we are reminded of his favorite verse from Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." and indeed, Billy did all he could with his strength because his light shone brightly, touching the lives of many with his good works, his love, his support, and his unwavering faith.

We invite all who knew Billy to the visitation on Thursday, 24 Sep 2026 at 1:00pmEDT at Segal Funeral Home, 3909 Henderson Boulevard, Tampa, Florida. We encourage you to share your favorite stories, memories, and photos on the memorial page, as we honor and celebrate the life of Billy Hernandez, a man who was as beautiful a soul as he was a loving presence in our lives.