Benito "Beato" Ponce

Benito Ricardo Rolando Ponce, affectionately known to family and friends as “Beato,” gained his angel wings on Monday, August 3, 2026, at the age of 45.

Beato was born on January 2, 1981, to his loving parents, Leticia and Benito Ponce. He graduated from Highlands High School with the Class of 1999 and continued his education in technical school. Throughout his life, Beato was committed to personal growth, always striving to improve himself and set new goals. He was passionate about learning and never settled, constantly challenging himself to develop new talents, expand his knowledge, and master new skills.

He had a remarkable gift for encouraging and inspiring everyone around him. His friends knew they could always count on him, as he was often the first to lend a helping hand—whether by giving his time, offering support, or organizing fundraisers for those in need. Beato never judged others. Instead, he led with compassion, kindness, and unconditional love.

Family was the center of Beato’s life. He cherished every moment spent with his loved ones, especially while traveling together, discovering new places, and enjoying different foods. Those memories brought him great joy and reflected his adventurous spirit.

Above all, Beato found happiness outdoors. He loved hiking new trails, spending time at lakes and rivers, and appreciating the beauty of nature. He also had a deep appreciation for music and creativity, enjoying writing lyrics and producing beats that allowed him to express himself. His curious mind drew him to studying the constellations, science, and Greek mythology, subjects that fueled his lifelong love of learning and discovery. Wherever he went, he had a special way of making others feel loved, accepted, and safe.

No matter where life took him, Beato always found comfort and peace at his parents’ home, a place that remained close to his heart throughout his life.

Beato’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for others will forever be remembered. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his selflessness, encouragement, compassionate heart, and his unwavering desire to keep learning, growing, and inspiring others to do the same. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Forever loved, forever remembered, and forever in our hearts.

He is survived by his children, Benito Rafael Ponce, Juan Carlos Ponce, and Ashley Yvette Ponce; his parents, Benito M. Ponce and Leticia C. Ponce; his sister, Linda Moreno and her husband, Jeremy Moreno; his brothers, Emmanuel Ponce and Erik Alejandro Ponce; his maternal grandmother, Juanita Cervantes; numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins; and countless friends.