Crista Benavides

The simple words from a grieving mother told us Crista gained her wings on September 19th: "She is with God; He has our angel!" "a reminder of how fleeting life is"

Crista was 18 years old, but even at this young age, she touched the lives of many. All who knew her found their life changed. Throughout her short, yet memorable life, she shared a passion and empathy for those in need.

Her life may seem too short, but those who knew her, understood that the quality of her existence far exceeds the quantity of time we shared. She gave us courage and hope and reminded us of the preciousness of life. She had a special drive, curiosity and ambition which taught us the importance of searching for, setting and reaching our goals. Crista displayed a certain class, and just when social graces seemed lost, she brought back what many lack"manners. She never forgot to offer a greeting or extend a thank you.

Looking at and listening to the people gathered as we celebrate Crista's life, one cannot help but notice the conversations dealing with contagious, shrill laughter, beautiful smiles, and the child flipping and cart-wheeling across green lawns and sandy beaches.

She is preceded by her maternal grandparents, William Edward and Judith Lydia Sweatt, paternal grandfather, Wenceslao Benavides, Sr., uncle, Gerardo Benavides and keeping her place in the line at heaven's gate, her father, Andres Benavides.

Crista is survived by {"the best person I know"" (cb 9/19)} her mother, Sara Sweatt; siblings Dian, Marco, Ariel, and Alana. Also surviving her are her paternal grandmother, Amelia R. Benavides; aunts and uncles, Judith K Sweatt, Ariadna B. Mier (Jesus), Janie Leal, Diamantina Benavides, Alberto Benavides (Martha), Amelia Moore (Robert), Wenceslao Benavides, Jr., a slew of cousins and numerous other relatives.

Along with relatives, survivors include longtime family friends, the Saenz-Benavides, Silva-Quezada and Lopez families.-Among her survivors are her cheer sisters, past and present, and of course, her beloved cheer coaches.

Special thanks to: Christus Santa Rosa Hospital,-Drs. Frei-Jones, Langevin, Sugalski, and Bolude; nurses Scott, Sal, Adriana, Sandy, Traci, Anne, Jill, and case-manager Laura Worsham, United ISD, United South High School, cheer booster club, administration, faculty, staff, students, Cordy, and Ana, as well as ALL others (too numerous to mention) who've offered help, support and prayers, our most sincere appreciation.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Bethany House because ONE of Crista's passions was her sincere concern for those among us who are hungry and homeless.

In celebration of Crista's life, the family requests everyone wear white during ceremonies if possible.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the funeral service professionals at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels, 1410 Jacaman Rd., Laredo, TX 78041, 956.722.8850