Nereida "Nery" Benitez - Hernandez

Born on August 20, 1985, in Dallas, Texas, Nery lived a life defined by compassion, service, and love. She was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, granddaughter, aunt, and friend whose caring spirit touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Nery was a dedicated emergency room nurse whose passion for caring for others was evident throughout her career. Most recently, she served at Sharp Memorial Hospital, where she was respected by her colleagues and valued by the patients and families she cared for. Her commitment to helping those in need extended far beyond her profession.

In the early morning hours of June 11, while returning home from her hospital shift, Nery stopped to assist victims involved in a traffic accident on Interstate 15 in Southern California. Tragically, she lost her life while rendering aid—an act that reflected the kindness, courage, and selflessness that defined her character every day.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Emilio Hernandez; her son, Josiah Burton; her mother, Maria Benitez; her father, Modesto Benitez; her grandmother, Maria del Rosario Rosales; her brothers, Marco Benitez (Reyna) and Modesto Benitez Jr.; and her sister, Selina Abonza (Juan).. She is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory. She is also survived by her beloved fur babies, Chico, Lina, and Zulu, who were a very special part of her family and brought her endless love, companionship, and joy.

Nery will be remembered for her generous heart, radiant smile, unwavering strength, and willingness to help anyone in need. Whether caring for patients, supporting family, spending time with her beloved fur babies, Chico, Lina, and Zulu, or encouraging friends, she gave of herself wholeheartedly. Her final act of service was a reflection of the extraordinary person she was and the legacy she leaves behind.

Though her time with us was far too short, Nery's love, compassion, and dedication to others will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, colleagues, and the many lives she touched.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.