Irene Regina Hernandez

Irene Regina Hernandez, age 80, of Shrewsbury, PA, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 11, 2024. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, she was the cherished daughter of the late Samuel and Emma (Updegraff) Tompakov. Irene was the devoted wife of the late Roy M. Hernandez, sharing 46 years of marriage filled with love and laughter until his passing in 2012.

Irene was a bright light in the lives of everyone who knew her. Known for her warm heart, infectious smile, and genuine kindness, she had a way of making every person feel special. She was the very definition of love, spreading joy and compassion wherever she went. Irene was not just a friend to many; she was a blessing, a confidante, and a constant source of comfort.

Family was at the center of Irene’s world. She treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, filling their lives with laughter, lessons, and unconditional love. Her other great loves included her beloved shih tzus, Molly and Bella, who were her constant companions and friends. She had a soft spot for all her dogs, perhaps only slightly rivaled by her love for yard sales, where she could be found on many weekends, hunting for hidden treasures and charming everyone she met.

Irene found joy in life’s simple pleasures—crocheting beautiful pieces for her loved ones, a good game of bingo, and lively conversations with friends. She faced every challenge with grace, leaning on a faith that was strong and unshakeable, inspiring those around her to live with purpose and kindness.

Irene leaves behind her loving children Deborah Kall and her husband Chris; Mark Corwin and his wife Monica; Vincent Corwin; and Tina Haller; nine adoring grandchildren Joshua Guerin, Erica Halsey, Andria Halsey, Tristan Kall, Ashtan Kall, Todd Corwin, Kent Corwin, Maxine Parmenter, Michelle Parmenter; and eight beloved great-grandchildren and one more on the way.  She is also survived by her dear siblings Morris “Butch” Tompakov, Helen Licharowicz and Joanie Nelson; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, and countless friends.

In addition to her parents and husband, Irene was preceded in death by her son-in-law, James Haller, her brother Joseph Albright, sisters Emma Busick and Lena Matkowski; and her two loyal shih tzus, Tinkerbell and Reenie, who are surely reunited with her now.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 11:00 – 12:30 p.m. at Hartenstein Funeral & Cremation Care, Inc., 24 N. Second St., New Freedom, PA 17349 with a memorial service from 12:30 – 1:00 p.m.

Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family at St. John the Baptist Cemetery, where Irene will rest peacefully surrounded by her loved ones.

Irene’s warmth and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, a legacy of light and love that will never fade.