Maria Benavides

Our hearts are broken as we mourn the loss of such an extraordinary woman. She truly was our first love, our protector, our home, our everything.

She was proud and independent. She marched to the beat of her own drum - tall, beautiful, and smart. She faced hardships early in life, taking them head on, and as a daddy’s girl, felt a great loss losing him.

Cuca was a wonderful mother and provider. She raised us as a strong single mom and was strict because she had to be. We never went hungry and always had a bed and a roof over our heads. She made our Christmases memorable and hustled to make ends meet, selling her beloved Mary Kay cosmetics and other goods.

She was so excited to become a grandmother. She was instantly in love when Jason, her first grandbaby, was born, and even more so when Nina, her first granddaughter, who was more like a daughter, came along with Cassie close behind her.

She had 9 grandchildren, 3 of each of her children. As much as she loved her grandchildren, she was absolutely crazy about her great-grandchildren. The boys Noah, Jacob, and Ethan are followed by baby girl Lively.

I credit my mom with our work ethic and respect for the workforce. Being ordinary or average was never her game. I picture her dancing in heaven. Mama Chuy and Freddie, please take good care of my mommy. She is with you now.

Tessie, Ruben, and Ana