Albina Benavidez

Weslaco- Albina Benavidez, a cherished homemaker and beloved matriarch, passed away peacefully at her home in Weslaco on October 13, 2024, at 81, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on July 15, 1943, in Tamaulipas, Mexico, Albina's life was a testament to her love for her family and community. She devoted herself to nurturing her family and creating a warm and loving environment.

Albina was a beacon of love and generosity, always putting the needs of her children and those around her before her own. Her vibrant personality, filled with life and energy, shone through in everything she did, making her a deeply respected figure among all who knew her. She was known for her unwavering honesty, boundless energy, and diligent work ethic, which served as an example for her family and friends.

A woman of considerable talents, Albina was renowned for her culinary skills. Her meals were delightful, with her albondigas paired with arroz being a particular favorite among family and friends. Beyond the kitchen, she found joy in tending to her garden, nurturing her plants with the same love she showered upon her family.

Albina's leisure time was often spent indulging in her passions, whether it was watching telenovelas, enjoying the timeless films of Pedro Infante, or listening to the heartfelt music of Espinoza Paz. She was a devoted believer in Jesus Christ and regularly attended Iglesia Bautista in Edcouch, where her faith was integral to her life.

As a proud mother and grandmother, Albina's proudest accomplishments were her children and grandchildren. The legacy of love she created will continue to inspire and uplift those left behind.

Albina is preceded in death by her parents, Napolean and Maria Guadalupe (Acosta) De La Fuente, her husband, Cesar Benavides, and her brother, Francisco De La Fuente. 

She is survived by her children, Julio Benavides (Anna), Aracely Salazar (Juan Angel), Maria Guadalupe Benavidez, Gilbert Benavides, and Juan Carlos Benavidez, siblings, Elvira Hinojosa, Ofelia Navarro, Oralia Aguirre, brothers, Eleazar De La Fuente, Napoleon De La Fuente Jr., grandchildren, Fernando Benavidez (Angie), Carlos Villarreal Jr., Rolando Villarreal (Veronica), Christian T. Mata (Casey), Gilbert Benavides Jr., Kaitlyn Benavides, Jason I. Benavides, Cassandra Peña (Ramiro), and Jeanette Garcia (Joe), fifteen great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Visitation will be held on October 16, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with a Celebration of Life at 7:00 PM. On Thursday, October 17th, a service at McCaleb Funeral Home will be at 10 AM. Albina will be laid to rest at Sacred Park Cemetery in Mercedes, TX. Carlos Villarreal Jr., Fernando Benavides, Rolando Villarreal, Gilbert Benavides Jr., Christian Taylor Mata, and Joseph Garcia will be pallbearers. 

Albina Benavidez leaves a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering devotion, cherished forever in the hearts of her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Napolean and Maria Guadalupe (Acosta) De la Fuente. Her memory will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those who were fortunate enough to share in her journey.