Eusebio Benavidez III

It is with the deepest sadness that the family of Eusebio “Jimmy” Benavidez III announces his passing on October 14, 2022, at the age of 75. In his last days, his determined spirit remained steadfast, even as his body grew tired. Protecting his family from having to make difficult decisions, Jimmy’s heart chose to rest, and he passed away peacefully with his wife of 43 years, Maria Thelma Benavidez, by his side. He lived and died on his own terms, and anyone who knew him, knew he wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Eusebio “Jimmy” Benavidez III was born on September 14, 1947, to Eusebio Benavidez Jr. and Guadalupe Sosa, on a farm in the small South Texas town of Alamo. He was the fifth child of nine; the adored brother. His childhood years were spent in Pharr, TX. He went to work at a young age, and at the age of 18, Jimmy joined the US Army. His military career allowed him the opportunity to travel the world and to build a better life for himself and his family. Jimmy proudly served his country for 22 years, to include two tours in the Vietnam War.

Jimmy and Thelma began the journey of their 43 years of marriage in 1979. Together they chose to raise their four children in Killeen after Jimmy retired from the Army in 1988. He established his own remodeling business, Benavidez Construction, which he managed until he permanently retired in 2006. He was a provider, a protector, and a teacher to his family. He spoiled his girls and provided tough lessons for his boys. His son and two sons-in-law were put to work early on. He was likely to take over the task because no one could do the job quite right like he could, but the lifelong lessons remain. He never wavered from being the rock-solid foundation of his family, showing his love through acts of service.

Jimmy lived his life to the fullest, loved to be on the go, and always had a project in the works. As he got older, and his body slowed, he found joy in keeping busy in his yard, and could always be found “piddling around” in his garage.

He and Thelma loved to spend hours outside tending to the plants and garden. They were also devoted to their 11 adored grandchildren. Together they traveled from Texas to Arkansas and Georgia to love and spoil their “babies.” Anyone who knew Jimmy knew he loved a good laugh and was his own favorite comedian. He always found a way to bring laughter to a room- even if it did get him in trouble at times. Laughter was always his best medicine.

Jimmy is preceded in death by his parents, Eusebio and Guadalupe Sosa Benavidez Jr.; brother, Gabriel Benavidez; and three sisters: Aleia B. Garcia, Esperanza Hope Martinez, and Maria L. Prado.

He is survived by the love of his life, his wife, Maria Thelma Benavidez; three daughters: Samantha Benavidez (Vincent Apodaca), Sabrina (Michael) Smallwood, Stephanie Rivera; and son Eusebio Benavidez IV. Sisters: Alma Espinosa, Guadalupe Guerra, and Elva Kimbrel.

Jimmy has 11 grandchildren: Jason & Jax Apodaca; Ethan, Eian, Eli, & Michael Smallwood Jr.; Sophy, Sarah, Sydni, & Samuel Rivera; and Eusebio Benavidez V.

Visitation will be Monday, October 24 from 5:00-7:00 PM at Crawford Bowers Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 7:00 PM. Graveside services, with full military honors will be at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, October 25 at 10:00 AM at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.crawfordbowersfuneralhome.com for the Benavidez family.