Vincent Louis Benavidez

Vincent Louis Benavidez, age 61, of Converse, Texas sadly left us on Saturday, May 4, 2024. He leaves behind his wife of 29 years, Barbara; his step-daughter Janice Bowden, son-in-law Travis, their children Braxton and Bryson; his step-son Jerome, daughter-in-law Katie and their children Gabriel, Michael, Jeremiah.

He is also survived by his daughter Danielle Rice, son-in-law Charles; his son Joseph Benavidez, and their mother Annie. Vincent was predeceased by his beloved parents, Vincent and Virginia Benavidez, his baby brother Victor Benavidez and wife Irene, and his son Alex Benavidez.

Vincent lived a life full of adventure; he joined the Air Force at 23years old and retired as Master Sergeant after 22years of service. During his years of service he was stationed in Devens, MA, Taegu-Korea, Keesler-Mississippi, Misawa-Japan, Spandahlen-Germany, Andersen-Guam, and Pope-North Carolina.

Throughout his career he was awarded many medals: Air Force Achievement Medal (3), Air Force Outstanding Unit (8), Air Force Good Conduct (6), National Defense Service, Iraq Campaign Ribbon, Southwest Asia Sevice, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary and Service, Korean Defense Service, Air Force Overseas Ribbon Long/Short, Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon with Gold Border, Air Force Longevity Service (4)

Vincent was an avid reader; he loved stories about brave warriors, history, and survival guides. Vincent was a proud "dooms-day" prepper, ready for a zombie attack or any other survival situation. He loved movies---especially Sci-Fi--and loved to share how he worked at a movie theater as a teen. Star Trek and Star Wars were among his favorites, and he was proud to give a Klingon blessing at his daughter's wedding.

Vincent loved man's best friend---his home was always full of dogs. Amongst his beloved pets are Juno, Max, Cha-cha, Rillo, Boo-Boo, Roxy, Rocko, William, Luna, Cleo, Millie-Bobby, Henry, and Kiona. Vincent donated to his local animal shelter on a regular basis, and was passionate about making sure his dogs were safe and happy.

Vincent was a proud grandfather; his grandchildren will have fond memories of "Papa" taking them trick or treating and play wrestling.

When visiting his children in Massachusetts Vincent loved to stop by the local model shop, get gas station chocolate donuts, or go to a nearby park/playground. He was proud to say his two sons joined the service, following his and his father's footsteps.

Vincent was a skilled model airplane maker. His home is full of his talented work and his "wish list" always included model kits or materials. Vincent could often be found enjoying one of his recorded "shows", enjoying a Sunday recap with his wife, or watching the news. He could always be counted on to warn his children in Massachusetts of impending snowstorms. Or to remind them of how Texas doesn't get snow.

Vincent was a beloved father, husband, uncle, grandfather, and friend. He will be missed by all those that truly knew him.

A visitation for Vincent will be held Friday, May 10, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Colonial Funeral Home, 625 Kitty Hawk Road, Universal City, TX 78148. A committal service with military honors will occur Monday, May 13, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery, 11463 TX-195, Killeen, TX 76542.

We ask attendees to wear white, if you are or were in the military, please wear your blues at the committal service.