Maria Dolores Benavidez

Maria Dolores Benavidez, born in Mercedes, Texas, on November 29, 1927, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at the age of 97.
Maria was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, a woman of unwavering strength, and a shining example of love and faith. She raised ten children with boundless care and warmth, always ensuring her home was filled with the comforting aroma of her delicious meals and the sound of laughter and music. Her angelic singing voice brought joy to many, and her songs were often heard as she went about her day.
A woman deeply rooted in her Catholic faith, Maria was especially devoted to Our Lady of Guadalupe. Her days began and ended in prayer, and her life was a living testament to faith, perseverance, and devotion. She possessed an independent spirit and a strong will, never backing down from a challenge and always standing firm in her beliefs.
Maria found joy in the simple beauties of life. She had a green thumb and lovingly grew fruit trees from seed — oranges, lemons, pomegranates, and tangerines filled her garden. She found peace and happiness outdoors, nurturing plants and enjoying the fresh air.
Her artistic soul shone through in the delicate embroidery she created and the drawings and colorings of birds and flowers she so loved. Her creativity, paired with her nurturing nature, left a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who knew her.
Maria’s life was a tapestry of faith, love, resilience, and grace. She is preceded in death by her husband, Eliodoro Benavidez and her son, Julio Cesar Benavidez.
She will be deeply missed by her children, Eliodoro Benavidez, Maria De Jesus Quintanilla, Josie Garza (Osbaldo Garza), Rosalinda Urdialez (Robert Urdialez), George Benavidez, Richard Benavidez (Erika Benavidez), Leonor McVea, Lupe Thomas (Mario Thomas), Rene Benavidez (Diane Benavidez), numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, siblings, Maria Quezada, Guadalupe Quezada, Jesus Quezada, friends, and all who were blessed to know her.