Hernandez, Antonia Chico "Unya, Tonette, Mah, or Wowa", 75, of Lithia, Florida passed away on March 19, 2022, at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital in the ICU (A435). Born on March 1st 1947 and raised in Nueva Ecija, Philippines she graduated from The Thomasian in 1967 with a B.A. of Science in Education.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leopoldo and Agrifina Chico; sibling Oddie Dalisay; husband Tolentino Hernandez in 2016. Antonia is survived by her son Michael Hernandez; grandchildren Leila and Mikayla Hernandez; Antonia's siblings Terisita Bugayong, Eppie Daag, Clemente Chico and their extended families.

Antonia lived in many parts of the world. She worked for many years in Kano State, Nigeria as a teacher and developed life-long friendships that continue to this day. She eventually made her way to New York and then New Jersey. Antonia found the most joy when she lived in Jersey City, NJ where many of her closest friends live. Antonia worked for Holy Cross School in Harrison NJ for many years and found her purpose as a teacher and colleague with their great faculty/staff. She battled and survived Breast Cancer in the mid 90's. She was an extraordinarily strong and independent woman. Antonia was one of the kindest and most accommodating people you could ever meet. She was a deeply religious person and spent a lot of her time on daily Rosary prayers. She loved her grandchildren Leila and Mikayla very much and spent lots of time with them. They played board games, watched TV, listened to music, or simply talked with them. Her beautiful smile and infectious laugh will be severely missed.

Antonia's Private Tribute Cremation and Viewing will be held on Friday, April 1st at Serenity Meadows Memorial Park Funeral Home in Riverview but is limited to immediate family members only. A separate Memorial Mass and Repast Celebration will be held for Antonia's closest friends and family at St. Henry's R.C. Church in Bayonne, NJ on Saturday, April 9th, 2022 10:45 am.