Kay Collins Hernandez

Kay Collins Hernandez passed peacefully October 10th, 2023 in Las Cruces, New Mexico at La Posada Mesilla Valley Hospice with friends and family by her side. Born July 9, 1951, in Hobbs, New Mexico, Kay grew up in the Mesilla Valley with parents Seaborn P. and Lelia Jane (nee Quesenberry) Collins and brother Rex. Kay was a high school graduate of San Marcos Academy, San Marcos, Texas (1969) and went on to earn a BS/MA in Criminal Justice.

Kay enjoyed a diverse, longtime career in Law Enforcement including writing many grants with her late husband, former Sheriff Juan Hernandez, to establish many safe community programs, including K-9 Unit/detection training, community outreach, and establishment of base curriculum for Dona Ana Community College Criminal Justice Program which she taught several semesters.

Kay was a devout member of University Presbyterian Church where she served in many ministry areas, including leadership in the worship, music, youth, children’s and women’s programs. She was an example that all gifts we receive are meant to be shared and passed on.

In retirement, she was passionate about teaching teens and adults how to play guitar and sowing seeds that will bear fruit for years to come. In recent years she served many refugees, donating her time and several other resources to their new lives in the United States.

As cited by her nephew, Kay held a strong character. “Whatever the situation, she always knew what to do and how to get it done”. She will be sincerely missed by many.

She is survived by siblings: Janene Boyd (Ron) Pender, Jill Boyd, and John (Jay) Armstrong Boyd III, Sisters-in-Laws Berta (Roy) Covey, Rosemary (Miguel) Contreras, Linda (Raul) Hernandez, Frances (Manny) Hernandez, Brother-in-Law Victor (Priscilla) Hernandez, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends who were also considered family.

Kay was predeceased by her husband Juan M. Hernandez, daughter Lori Gresham, brother Rex Collins and Sister-in-Law Sandy.

Kay requested a simple graveside service which will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens November 1st at 10:00 a.m. for family and close friends. University Presbyterian Church will announce and host a separate engagement for those knew and loved Kay can share stories of how she influenced their lives and shared her love of Jesus with others.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to your favorite charity.