At 100 years old, Jimmy Hernandez still drives, climbs ladders, and dreams of skydiving again for his 101st birthday. Despite a few age-related issues, he feels strong, has avoided major illnesses, and continues to live with vitality.
What’s his secret? Hernandez credits hard work, clean living, staying active, a positive outlook, and close family ties.
Work Hard and Stay Determined
After serving in the Pacific during World War II, Hernandez built a lifelong career as a carpenter. He began working at 22 and didn’t retire until 91, supporting his 12 children through decades of hard labor.
Even now, he keeps busy repairing his mobile home, whether it means crawling under it or climbing onto the roof. Though his family worries, Hernandez insists on independence. “I do my own stuff,” he says proudly.
He attributes his longevity to his work ethic and, as he puts it, “help from up above.”
Live a Clean and Balanced Life
Hernandez believes good health comes from simple choices:
- Don’t smoke or drink heavily.
- Eat in moderation.
- Stay active in both body and mind.
“You can’t just sit and watch TV all the time because you’ll get fat,” he warns. “You’ve got to exercise and not let yourself go.”
This balanced mindset has kept him healthy and alert for decades.
Stay Active, No Matter Your Age
Movement has always been central to Hernandez’s life. From carpentry and dancing to fixing things at home, he never stopped being active.
His granddaughter, Vickey Hernandez Farley, says his lifestyle is a big reason for his good health: “I want to live a long life like my grandfather, but I also want to be in his health if I’m going to be around that long.”
Longevity also runs in his family—his mother lived to 90, and his aunt reached 102. Inspired by both genes and lifestyle, Hernandez still hopes to skydive every year. “If God keeps me here, I don’t mind jumping every year,” he laughs.
Enjoy the Good Things in Life
Hernandez balances discipline with enjoyment.
He has loved dancing since his teens and even danced at his 100th birthday party. He enjoys cooking steaks, sipping tequila occasionally, and never skips dessert. Coffee with pie—especially peach or apple—is a favorite, and sometimes he treats himself to a donut.
Most importantly, he stays positive: “You’ve got to live positive. I think that’s the only way to go.”
Keep Family Close
Family is at the heart of Hernandez’s life. Born in Escalon, California, to Mexican parents, he now leads a legacy spanning five generations.
He and his wife Dora have been married for 57 years. Together, they raised 12 children—nine daughters and three sons. His family has since grown to 34 grandchildren, 64 great-grandchildren, and 24 great-great-grandchildren.
Reunions are held every year, and his home is always full of visitors. His philosophy is simple: “Love people. That’s what my mom and dad taught us—to love and hug each other. You’ve just got to enjoy life, trust people, and respect others.”
Lessons From 100 Years of Life
Hernandez’s story shows that longevity isn’t about strict rules or secrets—it comes from consistent habits:
- Work hard and remain independent.
- Live clean and avoid harmful habits.
- Keep moving, both physically and mentally.
- Enjoy life with balance and positivity.
- Stay close to family and nurture relationships.
At 100, Hernandez inspires his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with his energy and optimism. His life proves that long years mean little without quality—and his mix of discipline, positivity, and joy shows how to live well at any age.
Looking ahead to another skydive at 101, Jimmy Hernandez reminds us that age is just a number. The real secret to longevity is simple: work hard, stay active, enjoy life, and hold family close.