Eugenio Mata Benavides passed away peacefully on December 21, 2023. He was born in his hometown of Alice, Texas, on March 7, 1948, to his parents Juan and Rosa Benavides. Eugenio better known as Eugene, Dad, Grandpa, brother, compadre, or amigo, will be dearly missed by those who knew him and loved him.
Eugene’s early education took place in the Agua Dulce Independent School District where he attended until the eighth grade. Demonstrating a strong sense of duty from a young age, he began working to help his parents support his family. His commitment to service was further exemplified when he joined the United States Army in 1968. Eugene bravely served in the Vietnam War and was honored with the Purple Heart Medal for his valor. He retired in 1970 with the rank of SP4, carrying with him the virtues of hard work, honesty, and respect that would define his character throughout his life.
A man of his word, Eugene believed in the power of a handshake and the importance of punctuality. He was known for his selfless nature, always extending a helping hand to those in need. Eugene’s home was a haven for many, offering shelter and comfort to friends and family facing hardships. His generosity knew no bounds, as he gave freely of his time, talent, and treasure.
Eugene’s passions were enjoying the sounds of Tejano music and he took great joy in dancing. He was also a die-hard Dallas Cowboy fan who could often be heard cheering on his favorite team while enjoying a cold Michelob Ultra. Above all, family was Eugene’s priority. One of his favorite ways to celebrate with loved ones was family gatherings and barbequing. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he never missed an opportunity to support them whether at school functions or sporting events, always offering encouragement and love.
Eugene was proceeded in death by his parents, Juan and Rosa Benavides; his brother, Adan Benavides; sister-in-law, Esmeralda Benavides; and brothers-in-law, Adan Ramirez and Charlie Moorman.
His legacy continues through his beloved children, Annette (Adalberto) Ponce, Melissa Garcia, Nelda Alvarez, Eugenia Benavides, Wendy Benavides, and Roberto (Gina) Benavides; his siblings, Lydia (Domingo) Longoria, Margarita Ramirez, Maria Esther Moorman, Alicia Benavides, Sylvia (Gary) Perez, Angelita (Noe) Gamez, Maria Antonia (Vicente) Sanchez, Humberto Benavides, and Juan (Trina) Benavides; sister-in-law, Nancy Benavides; twelve grandchildren; dear friends and compadres, Adrian Benavidez, Joe Pruneda, and Victor Trevino; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who will fondly remember his generosity and love.
Eugene’s family will receive condolences on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM, at Trevino Funeral Home Alice, 120 E. Front St.; with a Holy Rosary to be recited at 7:00 PM that evening. The family will continue to receive condolences on Thursday, January 4, 2024, from 8:00 AM until 9:30 AM at Trevino Funeral Home Alice. A funeral cortege will depart the funeral home at 9:30 AM for Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church followed by Rite of Committal and Interment at Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Honoring Eugene as pallbearers are Adrian Ramirez, Noe Gamez Jr., Joseph Salinas, Adan Ramirez Jr., Donny Longoria, and Noel Vela. Honorary pallbearers are Shawn Davis and Benancio Longoria.
To leave your condolences for the family of Eugenio Mata Benavides, share your memories, or visit his tribute wall, please go to www.trevinofuneralhome.net.
