Julio “Jay” Hernandez passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Whittier on June 25. He was born to Theresa and Justo Hernandez at their sharecropper farm in Rosenberg, Texas on Sept. 23, 1937. Jay started his career in the optical industry early in life in Texas before moving to California with his wife Letty in the 1960s. Jay purchased Collard Rose Optical from one of its original owners in 1975, and turned it into the preeminent optical laboratory in the nation. Jay was deeply involved in Whittier, and worked hard for its betterment. He was a philanthropist who served on the Boys and Girls Club board, and was deeply involved in several community organizations. Jay was devoted to helping students achieve their full academic potential, and work to assist those who were unable to afford higher education. Jay loved to spend his free time perfecting his home garden. Jay was the father of four children — Regina, Ray, Robby (Jennifer) and Gabriel (Sunny). He was the grandfather of five children whom he loved dearly — Casey, Marley, Riley, Will and Julian.
