Elizabeth Jo Hernandez passed away late Friday evening on July 24, 2026, in her home in Cortez, Colorado, surrounded by love and family.

Born on June 11, 1951, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Jo moved to Inglewood, California with her parents, where she had fond memories of attending LA Dodgers games with her dad, and would later meet the true love of her life. Jo married her high school sweetheart, John, in 1969, and together they had three children: Jonathon, Mario, and Alicia.

Jo and her family made their home in Colorado in 1978, spending countless hours in the San Juans and running the Sawpit Store just outside of Telluride. Their life-long community of friends was built from recreational softball games and legendary Christmas Eve celebrations. Jo and John later retired to Cortez where they enjoyed life on the golf course.

Jo had a competitive, fighting spirit which shone through while watching sports and during her battle with cancer. She will forever be remembered as our Warrior who beat cancer not once, but twice, before it finally took her in the end.

She is survived by her beloved husband, John, son Jonathon, daughter-in-law Tanya, son Mario, daughter-in-law Lindsey, daughter Alicia, daughter-in-law Melani, grandson Anthony, grandson Eric, granddaughter-in-law Molly, granddaughter Rylyn, grandson Cruz, granddaughter Harper, granddaughter Harlie, great-grandson Hunter, and great-granddaughter Brooklen. Oh, and her kitty (Lilli), Black lab (Anna), and dog Saddie.

A rosary, mass, and graveside service for Jo will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, August 3, 2026, at Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque Catholic Church in Cortez, Colorado. A reception will follow from 1:15pm – 4:15pm at the Cortez Recreation Center.

In lieu of flowers, you are welcome to make donations to her wonderful Hospice provider, Pasco/SW Health Care.