Shirley Bernice (Elliot) Hernandez, 90, of East Freedom, PA; passed away on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at UPMC Altoona Hospital.  She was born on March 12, 1935 in Hinton, WV; a daughter of the late Mildred “Mickey” Elliot and M.L. Haywood.  On October 14, 1952 in Newport News, VA; she was united in marriage to Hiram Hernandez.  He preceded her in death on October 1, 2002.

She is survived by the following children Denise K. Clark, Debbie Smith, Robert “Bobby” Hernandez married to Raylene, Michael Hernandez, Joann Claar married to Denny, Tina Yarnell and “The Blonde Daughter”, Becky Martin; twenty grandchildren, thirty-eight great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild; siblings Lynn Haywood and Mary Haywood along with her two best friends "Smurf" and Donna.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Ricki C. Bequeath, three sons-in-laws, Ronald Bequeath, Lynford Clark and Monte Smith; brother, Curt Taylor, Aunt Ethel Foster and Grandmother Maw Maw.

Shirley worked at Walt Disney World as a character usher for 15 years.  She enjoyed going to the casinos and shopping. She collected stuffed animals and Disney characters, especially Betty Boop. She also enjoyed chickens, Indians artifacts and cats.

 A private memorial service will be held by the family.

Arrangements by Akers Funeral Home, Inc., 299 Raystown Road, Everett, PA 15537.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.akersfuneralhome.com