Hector Luis Hernandez Escalera

South Hadley-Hector Luis Hernandez Escalera, 75, passed away at his home on March 6, 2025.  He was born June 9, 1949 in Aibonito, Puerto Rico, the son of Sebastian Escalera and Aurea Rivera Hernandez.  Hector spent time in Aibonito and was well known by the local community.  Everyone who knew him, loved him.  About 30 years ago, his late sister, Rosa, brought him here to MA to live with her and her family, her husband Carols and their son, Gabriel.  

In August of 2021, Hector moved to South Hadley under the care of The Consortium where he was cared for until is passing. While with The Consortium, Hector’s love of his country and cultural was well known and honored! When walking into Hector’s room, you would be immediately immersed into his Puerto Rican Heritage! Flags and trinkets from the island covered his space. Hector was proud of where he came from and share his love of his country with everyone he met. 

Hector was a lover of horses and thoroughly enjoyed a good home cooked meal and multiple cups of coffee a day! He loved sitting on his front porch and soaking in the sunshine. It reminded him of home! Hector enjoyed the ladies and was known for this beautiful, flirtatious smile that would show up any time a lady was in his presence…always the gentlemen though! He was vivid story teller and found humor and pleasure in sharing his stories from his life in Puerto Rico.  He attended Baraco Day Program in Springfield, MA and enjoyed building relationships and gaining new peers to share his stories with! Most importantly, Hector was loved by those who cared for him daily and brought joy to everyone he came across.  

Hector is survived by his sister, Iris and family from New York along with his nephew, Gabriel, his father, Carols and niece, Miosoty and her husband in CT that also visited with him.  Hector has many nieces in nephews that live in Aibonito, Puerto Rico, Philadelphia and Tony Escalera.  His sister-in-laws, Canda and Gelita loved him very much. He is also survived by his housemates Robert Senecal , Miguel Izquierdo ,his caretakers at Wildwood, across The Consortium, and The Department of Developmental Services (DDS)

Besides his sister, Rosa, Hector was predeceased by his parents , brothers, Miguel Angel, Guillermo and Manuel and housemate Scott Dinsmore. Hector’s memory will be honored and his joy, his stories,  and his beautiful smile will remain with us always.   Remembrances will be shared on Saturday, March 29 at 3pm at the Beers & Story South Hadley Funeral Home.