James Hernandez's Memorial

Submitted By: Kayla Victor

Candles Lit: 201

James Hernandez's Legacy

James Carlos Hernandez II, known to his friends as Jim, was born on September 4, 1954. He was raised by his loving adoptive parents Diana and James Hernandez. Jim grew up in Northern California accompanying his father around the nearby golf course.

Jim died at his home in Portland, Oregon on April 5, 2010 at the age of 54 and is survived by his husband of 27 years, Joseph Burgos. He passed peacefully in his sleep, as a result of lung cancer, with his beloved husband and family friends by his side. Jim died as he lived his life -- with dignity and grace.

Jim was perhaps best known for his mastery of words and as a champion for the underdog. He worked endless hours over the years toward humanitarian efforts. In the 1980’s Jim worked as a volunteer educating people on AIDS and spent his most recent years tiredlessly advocating for the homeless and writing endless letters to public officials advocating for peoples’ rights.

In addition to his partner/husband Joey, Jim is survived by his godson Nathan Kinney, brother Christian Drew Sidaris, and his two beloved cats Piper and Scooter.

Predeceased by his mother Diana Mumby who died of cancer when Jim was 19 and his father James Carlos Hernandez who died in 1998 at the age of 79.

Jim was influential in starting the Rose City Softball League. Both he and Joey were the founding fathers of the league. Joey tells the story how Jim literally stood in the middle of the park blocks in 1994 with his hands raised above his head and a pink clipboard clenched firmly between both hands asking people to sign up to play softball.

Over the years Jim had an eclectic career, in his early years he worked for the Charlie Daniels Band, the rock band Journey, and was an international banker in San Francisco where he rose to Vice President with Bank of American. However, Jim felt his most important work was advocating and helping others who could not help themselves.

When Joey was asked to sum up Jim’s life in three words he simply replied – Integrity, Compassion and Commitment.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to one of Jim’s favorite charities,
Council for the Homeless 2500 Main Street Vancouver, WA 98660
Dove Lewis 1945 NW Pettygrove Portland, OR 97209
Rose City Softball Association PO Box 12522 Portland, Oregon 97212


A life celebration for James Carlos Hernandez II (Jim) is scheduled
Time: 7:00 PM
Date: April 26, 2010
Location: Vancouver Housing Authority
2500 Main Street Vancouver, WA 98660