Benito Castillo Yslas, beloved husband, father (faja), son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend passed away peacefully at home with his wife holding his hand on Thursday, June 23, 2022. He fought like nobody’s business for so many years, always determined to live his best life. Born in Austin, Texas, on December 13, 1955, Benny was preceded in death by many loved ones, including his father, Jesus Yslas, his mother, Marcelina Yslas, his second mother and sister, Janie Romas, and brothers, Manuel Yslas and Frank Yslas, Sr. Benny was also preceded in death by his brother from another mother, James (Jimmy) Caton, Sr.
Benny was soft-spoken, kind-hearted, and soulful with the biggest sweet tooth of anyone you ever met. His love was unconditional. He never knew a stranger and loved meeting new people and making conversation. One of Benny’s best qualities is that he accepted everyone just as they are. He loved fiercely and was the most loyal person you could meet. Benny’s presence simply put you at ease. And humor, that was his complete personality. No one could make you laugh like Benny. When you were on the opposite end of that grin it was pure joy! Loved ones said his friendship was once in a lifetime, and described him as a gentleman with a heart as big as an elephant and the courage of a lion.
Benny was a trailer mechanic contracted by the railroad for most of his career. He could fix anything and loved tinkering with everything. Benny’s mechanical brain never stopped; he had brilliant ideas, and many times created something from nothing. He was a collector of all things. Benny treasured his Harley Davidson and spread that love of riding to his wife. He also enjoyed camping and fishing. He and Linda married at the top of the spring at Bennett Springs State Park. He truly loved the outdoors. Another huge love was music. He would sing song lyrics to Linda from the time they met. Sham-a-lama Ding Dong was one of those songs; everyone loved him playing and singing from the jukebox (less the Chicken song – those who know, just know!) Benny could sit on the patio at home listening to music and be content all night long, although he loved going out to see his favorite bands, Allied Saints and the Nace Brothers. Many also know Benny was a gifted pool player. He shot for many leagues throughout the metro area, even making it to finals in Las Vegas.
Benny was survived by his forever love and wife, Linda, daughter, Samantha Brennan (Jác), son, Benito Gutierrez (Jennifer), daughter, Angelena Smallwood (Earl), four grandchildren, Scarlett, Little Benny, Jordyn, and Julianna, two great-grandchildren, Benito and Aaliyah; his beloved brother Tomas (Betty), sisters, Ester, Stella (Earl), and Eva, many loved nieces and nephews including Paul (Dana), Jesse, Jessica (Matt), and his cutie patootie, Kierstin.
Benny loved his dogs, Lucy (who passed unexpectedly in 2020) and his Oopa who stood by his side and went to Heaven to join her Dad on June 29, 2022. Although Benny said he would never have a cat, he rescued two ferals, Jack Bean and Stevie, who he couldn’t imagine living without.
Thank you to everyone that stood by Benny’s side throughout the years. Benny was grateful and loved you all so very much. We have an angel to watch over us until our time on this earth is done. We love you Benito Castillo Yslas. Forever and ever. Amen.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mcgilleygeorgebelton.com for the Yslas family.
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