Ophelia Benavides

Ophelia Valdez Benavides, 84, of Houston, TX went to be with the Lord on February 27, 2023. She was born in Zuehl, TX on February 18, 1939 to Manuel and Josefa Valdez. Ophelia was married to the love of her life, Preciliano (Benny) Benavides for 60 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Manuel & Josefa Valdez; siblings, brothers Heriberto (Beto) and Rueben Valdez, and sisters Elida Esparza, Stella V. Rodriguez, Francis Macias and brothers-in-law, Guadalupe Hernandez, Frank Esparza and Leon Rodriguez and sister-in-law Angeline Valdez. Ophelia is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Preciliano (Benny) Benavides; children, Marian Olivarez (Jose); Irma Koziol (Kenneth);siblings; Reynaldo Valdez; Olga Hernandez; sisters-in-law, Felisa Valdez and Mary Ann Valdez; grandchildren, Alexis and Sean Koziol, Nicholas, Kaitlyn, and Ashley Olivarez and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Ophelia was a Christian woman whose life was centered on her faith. She was known for her humor and constant jokes, good or bad. When Ophelia would walk into a room she would tell everyone; I have a joke for you. She was known as the “Carol Burnett” of the family because she loved to make people laugh. Her other passion was to dance. Once any song started to play, she was ready to dance with or without a partner . She loved to travel and enjoy her grandkids attending many school and sporting events. The grandkids were the love of her life and would do anything for them. Ophelia was the life of a party, full of energy and always giving. We thank God for sharing her with us for a long time and allowing us an opportunity to create many fond memories. We will cherish all the countless, happy and funny memories with her. We will miss her greatly until we are reunited once again.

A visitation for Ophelia will be held Thursday, March 9, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral service will occur Friday, March 10, 2023 at 10:00 AM at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, 10727 Hartsook St., Houston, TX 77034. A graveside will occur Friday, March 10, 2023 at 11:30 PM at Forest Park East.