What I will remember most about Michelle is her sharp wit and sense of humor.  She always made me laugh...and not just a little chuckle type of laugh, but a full-on, tears in my eyes, 'I can't talk right now' type of laugh.  She was one of the funniest people I have ever had the privilege of knowing.  She was also smart, caring, and real.  She made me feel at ease whenever I saw her, and she always had a kind word.   I will miss her dearly and think of her often.  My sincere and deepest sympathies to her family.

-Jennifer Rachels


So sad to learn about Michelle today. I remember the first time we met. We were both walking into Travis to pick up our kids at the beginning of the school year. Sophia was in kindergarten. I even remember what she was wearing, a leopard print blouse and a pencil skirt. I was drawn to her style. She had a bazillion questions about being a first time kinder mom. It was as if we were old friends. I’ll miss seeing Michelle at Lisa and Merrill’s house, where our paths usually crossed. She was so funny, always spot on with her observations, and never shy about what was on her mind.  Thinking of you and your girls, Victor.  

So heartbroken by this news. Rest In Peace sweet Michelle. Our love to Victor, the girls, Susan and Walter, and her whole family. 

We are so sad to hear of Michelle's passing. She was one of our Esperanza family, and we have known her and the Benitez family since Alice and Sofia were at Esperanza together aged 3. Although the children went to different elementary schools we kept in touch and have fond memories of swim dates at Afton Village pool and summer splashpark outings. She came to my "no-gift" 40th birthday lunch and, typical of Michelle, brought me a cute cupcake ceramic, which I love and still use every day. She was always generous with her hospitality. We loved coming over for LitH and New Year's parties and she was a considerate hostess, always welcoming and full of fun. Her liveliness and sparkle will be much missed. 
Victor, Sofia, Elena, Walter and Susan, we are thinking of you all at this horrible time. 

Jo, Nick, Alice & Tom xox 

Michelle was a funny, smart, compassionate woman.  She always had a different way of seeing a book, a situation, or an issue, that made me think.  Although we've known each other since our girls, Sofia L and Sofia B, were 3 years old in ballet together, we've become closer over the last couple of years in our book club.  My very favorite place to gather for book club, was Michelle's dining room; Michelle always made everyone feel comfortable, taken care of, and at home.  I will miss her terribly.  As Lisa Hines shared, Michelle was a world class hugger and I feel fortunate to be the recipient of many of those hugs.

For Sofia and Elena -- we will be there for you.  All of our neighborhood community will do whatever we can to help you be the strong, beautiful young women your Mom taught you to be.

XXXOOO 
-Susan Lundgren 


Michelle was a dear friend and I am so sad that she is gone. Michelle was great at making me laugh and making me think. There was never a dull conversation with her. We went to the Women's March together in Austin (one of the best road trips ever) and to rallies at the airport. Michelle was a very compassionate person who stood up for what she believed in. I admired her. In addition to her laugh, one of my favorite things about Michelle is that she was a world class hugger. Not everyone knows how to, or cares to, give a good hug but Michelle was different, at least with me. I always felt very loved when she wrapped her arms around me. I think I might miss her hugs most of all. I love you Michelle.

This message is for Sofia and Elena, who I have enjoyed teaching over the years. I wanted you to know how sad I am, to hear of the loss of your dear mother.
You sweet girls will always be a tribute to her. My heart is with you.
With love,
Carole Fairfield

OBITUARY

Michelle Benitez

October 4, 1970 – August 7, 2018

Heights Funeral Home

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