Lynette Anna Maria Hernandez

Lynette Anna Maria Hernandez of Long Beach, California, passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by her children, on January 24, 2026, at the age of 91.

Born in the Caribbean island nation of Trinidad and Tobago, Lynette grew up in Trinidad and was a devoted sister to 11 beloved siblings and a loving auntie to many nieces and nephews.

Lynette immigrated to the U.S. in 1960 and settled into a home on the city’s Westside. Lovingly raising four children close in age, including twins, was the greatest joy of her life. While raising four children was a full-time job in itself, Lynette also pursued a business career so she could improve her children’s circumstances and ensure their success in life.

Lynette performed admirably as a civil servant for the city of Long Beach in its Harbor Department and the Port of Long Beach for 25 years. In 1980, she was promoted into the management position of Wharfinger, and became the first-ever woman in the 69-year history of the Port to perform this job role. It was a distinct achievement and milestone that opened the door for other women seeking a management position.

Music was important to Lynette and she curated a remarkably diverse collection of music genres, including WWII-era big band orchestras, classical, pop, jazz, and rock and roll. Her favorite collections focused on Trinidad’s steel pan and calypso music. Lynette secured front row seats for herself and her four children to see piano virtuoso Liberace, and she was in the audience when Elvis performed live in Long Beach.

Lynette enthusiastically hosted special occasion house parties on a year-around basis, and looked forward to “Trini” parties that included family and friends from Trinidad.

Following her retirement, Lynette traveled extensively to many European countries and to her homeland. Her fondness for gardening may have been unmatched. She committed long hours to nurturing a remarkably diverse variety of roses and her purple irises. Lynette’s front yard was always blooming each spring and ready for her grandchildren’s Easter egg hunts.

Family is what made Lynette profoundly happy. She cherished her grandchildren and treasured every moment spent with them. Lynette formed lifelong, valued relationships from her personal and professional pursuits, as a church parishioner, and as an international traveler. She will be remembered for her devotion to family and friends, and the countless lives she touched through her generosity, kindness, and loving heart.

Good bye for now, Lynette, beloved and honored daughter, sister, aunt, wife, mother, grandmother, colleague, and friend. We will miss you.

Would you like to make a “contribution” in Lynette’s name? Perhaps you can visit an elderly neighbor just to chat or see if he/she needs anything; volunteer at a senior center; or just phone an old friend to say hello.