On Monday afternoon, a crowd of parents, students, and Dublin ISD staff gathered on Bob and Norma Cervetto Field to release balloons in honor of DHS student Eddie Hernandez’s 16th birthday.
Tragically, the one person who couldn’t attend was Hernandez who died in a two vehicle accident on Thursday night on Highway 67 near Stephenville according to a report by Department of Public Safety Troopers.
The sudden loss led to many impromptu events for his grieving classmates.
DISD Athletic Director Greg Hardcastle reported that the lights on the field were turned on that night as 70-80 students gathered on the turf around 11 p.m., joining in a prayer circle and sharing memories of “Big Eddie.”
“Eddie had such a presence,” said Hardcaslte. “He was big guy with a big heart. He would often walk up and hug people.”
Stories of Hernandez, whether shared online or in-person, invariably told of his gentleness and empathy, with many remembering how hugs from the tall student would make them feel better.
Hardcastle himself remembered several such occasions.
“There were times this year that I’d be walking through the locker room and had things on my mind,” Hardcastle remembered “Eddie would ask, ‘Coach, why are you mad?’ or Coach, why are you sad?’”
Eddie then offered the AD one of his trademark hugs and told him everything would be alright.
His positivity was reportedly felt by both his teammates as he stood on the sidelines during football games (Hardcastle said the offensive tackle was beginning to emerge as a leader for the team.) and just out in the school and community.
The support and friendship he offered to most everyone he met were obviously treasured by the crowds that attended his visitation Saturday night and filled the DHS gym, which was offered up by Dublin ISD for the service since they knew that many would be in attendance.
Seats were filled with people standing on both sides.
The honors continued as Eddie’s birthday came Monday and more than 200 balloons were gathered for release (some black, some read with handwritten birthday messages and some mylar featuring his jersey number, ‘75’).
As the balloons drifted up and away, it was remarked that the wind was carrying them in the direction of Eddie’s home.
Those balloons may have been carried off, but the memories of Eddie will remain. “We will find ways to
“We will find ways to honor him going forward,” said Hardcastle “He will not be forgotten—that’s for sure.”
An account has been set up and First National Bank to help Eddie’s family with funeral expenses.