Gustavo Octavio Benavides Jr.

Born under the Texan sky on January 8, 1942, Gustavo O Benavides, Jr. entered the world as the beloved son of Gustavo and Mary Benavides in San Antonio. As the third of six siblings, he embraced the rich heritage and spirited life of Texas. He grew up hunting, and fishing, and attended Catholic schools throughout his education. His academic journey led him to the hallowed halls of St. Mary's University, where he earned a degree in Mathematics. Upon graduation, Gus's sense of duty and patriotism shone through as he joined the Army as an Officer, embarking on a journey that would shape his life.

His military career was illustrious, serving with the esteemed 82nd Airborne Division. Gus's compassionate spirit led him to serve tours in Vietnam and Korea, demonstrating unwavering bravery and dedication. He earned the Bronze Star and served active duty for 24 years, earning the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He continued his career as a defense contractor for more than 30 years.

In the summer of '64, Gus's heart was captivated by Dora Elia Torres, and they sealed their love in matrimony. Together, they wove a tapestry of memories during their 58 years of marriage, traversing the globe with their three children in tow, embracing adventure at every turn.

The pursuit of knowledge was a constant in Gus's life; he furthered his education with a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Texas El Paso and honed his strategic acumen at the War College in Washington DC. His passions were as vast as the Texas plains, finding joy in the intricacies of math, the thrill of the hunt, the escapism of movies, and the endless worlds within books. Yet, these paled in comparison to the boundless love he held for his nine grandchildren and his cherished family.

Gus's faith was a guiding light throughout his life, a devoted Catholic with a heart brimming with generosity. He never hesitated to serve and help whenever and wherever the opportunity arose. He seized every moment to celebrate life's milestones with his loved ones, creating a legacy of joy and togetherness. His family takes comfort in knowing he was reunited in the heavens with his love, Dora, and his beautiful daughter, Marisa Wood, and granddaughter Mary Wood.

He leaves behind a vibrant family: his son Gus and daughter-in-law Leah; his daughter Nicole and son-in-law Johnny Self, Jr.; and his adored grandchildren—Adam, Abigail, Andrew, Luke, Veronica, AJ, Raquel, Marie, and LJ. His family, along with countless friends, are eternally grateful for the compassionate care provided by his nurses and caregivers, giving special thanks to Dara, Jeanie, and everyone at Brookdale University Park for their unwavering support.

Gus O Benavides, Jr.—a true Texas gentleman, a hero in uniform, a beacon of knowledge, a hunter of life's treasures, a cinematic enthusiast, an epic napper, an avid reader, a patriarch, a foodie before foodies were a thing and above all, a man whose heart knew no bounds. His legacy will continue to inspire, as vast and enduring as the star-studded Texas sky he so loved.

A Funeral Mass for Gustavo will be held Thursday, February 8, 2024 at 10:00 am at St. Mary of the Visitation Catholic Church, 222 Jefferson St N, Huntsville, AL. A Burial Service with Military Honors will occur Friday, February 9, 2024 at 11:00 am at Alabama National Cemetery, 3133 Highway 119, Montevallo, AL 35115.