Benetta "Bo" Leigh Callender

Benetta Leigh Callender (Bo to her many friends), 57, of Odessa, Texas, passed away on Tuesday, December 20, 2022, surrounded by her friends and her beloved dogs. Benetta was born in Hobbs, New Mexico on March 23, 1965, to the late H.M. and Mattie Callender. She graduated with Phi Theta Kappa honors with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the University of Texas of the Permian Basin in 2002.

She was employed as a case manager for the Residential Treatment Center at Desert Springs Medical Center. She worked with children who suffered from behavioral issues. It was a job she absolutely loved. She reached the children in her special way, always encouraging them to do their best. She fought for these children, often going toe-to-toe with doctors and nurses, ensuring the kids got the absolute best care.

Benetta loved old movies, old TV shows, music of the 60s and 70s and she was an avid historian of World War II focusing on the European theater. She loved her dogs, Little Bit and Bubba, who were a constant, comforting presence in the last years of her life.

Benetta is survived by her best friend and roommate of 28 years, Carrie Nanson, sister, Patricia Crossland of Hobbs, NM, three brothers, Howard (Sally) Callender of Stanton, TX, Artie Callender of Groesbeck, TX, and Gary (Vicki) Callender of Hobbs, NM and 6 nieces and 11 nephews.

Benetta is preceded in death by her parents, H.M. and Mattie Callender, two sisters, Ethel Moon and Brenda Mendoza, and one nephew, Michael Brewster.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 29, 2022, at 10:00 am at the Hubbard Kelly Funeral Home Chapel.

The family of Benetta Leigh Callender (Bo) wishes to thank Nicole Chapman for always coming to Bo’s side when she needed you, Vicki Hughes, for always answering your phone in times of need, and Stephanie Biodrowski of Tripple C Home Health for the best care a patient could receive. You always went above and beyond and became a wonderful friend in the process.