Benito V. Garza, affectionately known as Grandpa, peacefully passed away at his home on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at the age of 99. Grandpa was born in Goliad, Texas on May 13, 1924. He was a loving husband, a devoted father, an adorn grandfather, and a cherished great-grandfather. His life was a testament to love, service, and dedication to his family and community.
A proud and honorable veteran, Grandpa served his country during World War II. After his return, he embarked on a lifetime of service to his community. He dedicated fifty-six years of service as the Food Director for Benavides Independent School District, ensuring the well-being of countless generations of students. Grandpa’s commitment to the welfare of his community extended beyond the school district. For three decades, he selflessly served as a volunteer Fire Chief for the local Fire Department, bravely protecting his neighbors and friends on the front lines. In addition to his service as a Fire Chief, Grandpa also served proudly as Justice of the Peace in Duval County for thirty-four years. His wisdom and fair judgment earned him a place in the hearts of those who sought his counsel and guidance in their times of need.
Grandpa was preceded in death by his parents, Marcario Garza and Mirtala Vera Garza, his two brothers, Armando Garza and Ramiro Garza, and two sisters, Aurora Benavides and Lydia Whitman.
He is survived by his beloved wife of seventy-six years, Mary Elizondo Garza, their three sons, Daniel (Raquel), David (Maria), and Benny Lee, his sister, Emma Stockwell, his five grandchildren, Daniel Garza (Lizzy), Eva Garza-Nyer (Adam), Jennifer Perez (Albert), David Andrew Garza, and Denise Lee Garza and his seven great-grandchildren Daniel Garza, Lily Garza, Ava Nyer, Beck Nyer, Deen Nyer, Hailey Perez and Ella Perez. Grandpa was an admired uncle to his numerous nephews and nieces, leaving behind a lasting legacy of love and strong family ties that will endure for generations to come.
Grandpa was not just a man of remarkable accomplishments but a man of great heart and spirit. As we bid farewell to Grandpa, we remember the laughter, the wisdom, and the unwavering love he shared with us all.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at the Garza Funeral Home in San Diego, Texas with a Rosary to be recited at 6:00 p.m. Friends and family are invited to join us in honoring his memory and sharing stories of his remarkable life. Funeral services will be held at a later date. In consideration of the family’s wishes, we kindly ask that no flowers be sent.
A special thank you to Francisco “Panchito” Ruiz, Leticia Gudiño and Cynthia Villarreal for their dedicated love, care, and support during Grandpa’s final days.
