Dr.Francisco R.

Benavides

Dr. Francisco R. Benavides

March 7, 1946 – October 19, 2025

It is with great love and gratitude that the family of Dr. Francisco R. Benavides announces his passing into the presence of the Lord at the age of 79.

Dr. Benavides was born on March 7, 1946, in Harlingen, Texas, to Cristobal and Maria Benavides. From an early age, he carried a spirit of strength, curiosity, and deep faith. These qualities shaped the remarkable life he lived.

A proud veteran, Dr. Benavides faithfully served his country in the United States Army as a Chemical Staff Specialist and fought in the Vietnam War from 1964 to 1966. His courage and commitment to service left an enduring example for all who knew him.

Dr. Benavides was a man of many gifts. A self-taught musician, he played the piano, organ, guitar, and accordion with extraordinary talent — filling every room with joy, worship, and melody. He was also an avid golfer, enjoying countless rounds on the green with his brothers, cousins, and his eldest grandson.

Above all, Dr. Benavides was a faithful minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For 60 years, he preached, taught, and lived the message of hope and salvation. He planted churches throughout the United States, served extensively in missionary work in Mexico, and co-founded Cross Church, a bilingual, multi-site ministry serving the Rio Grande Valley and San Antonio. His ministry touched countless lives and will continue to impact generations to come.

Francisco cherished his family deeply. He is preceded in death by his parents; siblings Efren, Enrique, Cristobal Jr., Ezequiel, Rev. Esteban Benavides, and Alejandra Vargas; and by his beloved father-in-law, Salome R. Villarreal, and mother-in-law, Maria A. Villarreal, whom he loved and honored with all of his heart. The Villarreal family, in turn, embraced him as one of their own.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 58 years, Rosie V. Benavides; his children Francisco Benavides, Jr. (Ana), Rose Mary B. Loya (Jaime), Elias Benavides, Misael Benavides (Kimby), and Rebecca Gomez (Abram); his adoptive son Marcelo Castro (Vicky); thirteen grandchildren — Andrew Benavides (Lissy), Alexis Tovar (Ralph), Hannah Mayorga (Aldo), Sarah Loya, Isaiah Simpson-Loya (Autumn), Josiah Loya, Madelyn Castro, Jocelyn Castro, Victoria Castro, Maya Benavides, Joseph Benavides, Isabella Gomez, and Jude Gomez; and one great-grandson, Matthew Tovar. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family who loved him.

Visitation will take place at Cross Church - San Benito on Tuesday October 21, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 7:00 PM, officiated by Rev. Pastor Francisco Benavides, Jr.

A Committal Service will take place on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Cross Church – San Benito, followed by interment at Restlawn Memorial Park in La Feria, Texas.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Andrew Benavides, Isaiah Simpson-Loya, Josiah Loya, Ralph Tovar, Aldo Mayorga, and Joseph Benavides. Honorary pallbearers are Maya Benavides, Isabella Gomez, Jude Gomez, Madelyn Castro, Jocelyn Castro, and Victoria Castro.

Francisco lived a life of faith, love, and purpose. Though he will be greatly missed, his legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, church, and all who were touched by his ministry.

"But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God." Acts 20:24 KJV

With profound love and remembrance, the family of Dr. Francisco R. Benavides have entrusted his funeral arrangements to Lenny Elizondo, funeral director/owner of Trinity at Harrison Funeral Home, 1002 East Harrison Ave. Harlingen, Texas 78550. You may contact us at (956)364-2444 or visit us at www.trinityfunerals.com.