Onecimo "Onyx" Benavidez Jr.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Onecimo “Onyx” Benavidez, who left us on April 20, 2025, at the young age of 78.

Onyx was a remarkable man, a beacon in our community, whose presence and actions left an everlasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to know him.

He was married to his wonderful wife Letty, for 21 yrs, whom he loved and cared for deeply. His devotion to her was evident in every aspect of their life together & they could be found dancing & enjoying life with family & friends. He was an amazing provider to his family, always ensuring that they were cared for and supported. His commitment to his loved ones was unwavering, and he took great pride in being there for them through every trial and triumph.

Born on October 16, 1946, from an early age, it was clear he was no ordinary man. He was smart, driven, athletic and an outdoorsman, a born leader. He hunted rabbits at the early age of 6, taught by his father, excelled in math & his achievements did not stop at academics. He was also a defensive tackle, #70, for the Carrizo Springs Wildcats Football team, 1966. He led with the same spirit, he carried through his life, vibrant, passionate and tireless. Following his graduation in 1966, dad left for the Airforce. He was assigned to the military police where he trained dogs for deployment to Vietnam. He followed in his fathers footsteps to serve his country. He was a true patriot & loved his country to the end.

Our dad was more than just a father; he was a mentor, a guide, and an inspiration to many.

He was driven by a profound desire to make a difference, and indeed, he did. He stood as a pillar of strength and support in our community, always ready to lend a hand, share his wisdom, and foster a sense of unity among us all. His love for the outdoors was exemplary; He never lacked an appreciation of earth’s beauty & he taught us to respect nature. He knew the South Texas landscape like the back of his hand and possessed so much passion & understanding of wildlife and all of its native glory that was nothing short of impressive. He delighted in sharing this knowledge with his children, grandchildren, and anyone who showed an interest. His profound affection for his children and grandchildren was evident, and they gained significant knowledge from him.

Gathering with his family & friends was an integral part of his life. He loved to move to the rhythm of life, and his joy was infectious. He was never one to shy away from a lively debate, challenging our minds and encouraging us to think deeply. His zest for life and his humorous, playful nature made him a joy to be around. He could always be counted on for a good laugh or a silly joke, lightening the mood and bringing smiles to our faces.

He inherited his business acumen from his mother, who was a long-time business owner in Asherton, TX. His father, a WWII Veteran & local TX Sheriff, was such a guiding light for him and he taught him everything he knew. One of his greatest loves was his younger brother who he called his hero. He often told us how proud he was of him. He loved him so dearly.

His first career was as a telephone man with Southwestern Bell/SBC & he worked tirelessly, striving to climb the ladder where he worked his way up to Area Manager in South Texas. He worked for them for 35 yrs & then retired. Even after retirement, his passion for growth & new ventures never faded. He embarked on a new journey in real estate in 2006. He was a driven businessman to the end and a successful Real Estate Broker. His passion for his work was evident in every transaction, and he made a difference in many lives through his dedication and expertise. His clients valued his knowledge, integrity, and the genuine care he showed them.

Most importantly, he had an immense love for helping the youth. He helped start the Fishing Derby which has run for over 27 years successfully and was involved tirelessly as a board member of the Alexander Bulldog Booster Club ensuring the football team never went without. His contributions and dedication to their well-being and growth was unwavering, and he believed in nurturing the younger generation with care and attention. He inspired us all with his actions, his values, and his unyielding spirit.

Though he has left us, his legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those he touched. We will carry forward his lessons, cherish his memories, and strive to embody the principles he held dear. Today, we honor him not with sorrow, but with gratitude for the profound impact he made on all of our lives.

Dad, you will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. Your spirit continues to inspire us, and your love remains a guiding light in all of our lives.

He was preceded in death by both his parents: Onecimo G. & Lydia Benavidez

Left to cherish his memory, his wife Leticia Benavidez; His children in order of birth, Silvia Ann (Daniel) Espinoza, Corie (Javier) Dilley, Lily (Michael) Farias, Sandy (Jose) Nava; Onecimo “Onyx” G. Benavidez; Grandchildren: Daniel Espinoza Jr., Onyx B. Espinoza, Christopher Lee (Nayeli) Espinoza, Sabrina Maree Espinoza, Jared K. Dilley, Gavin K. Dilley, Brianna (Juan Carlos) Avila, Alexandra Nava, Christine Nava, Emma Nava, Ellie “Hiawatha” Nava; Great Grandchild: Lisa Nicole Espinoza; Sibling: Robert “Bobby” (San Juanita) Benavidez

The family will be receiving condolences on Monday evening, April 28, 2025 from 5 to 9pm at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd; where a vigil for the deceased and rosary will commence at 7pm.

Funeral Services will be conducted on Tuesday morning, April 29, 2025 departing at 8:30 a.m. from Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 579 Crockett St., Asherton, TX for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m.

Rite of Committal & Internment will follow at the family plot of the Guadalupe Cemetery in Asherton, TX.

Military Honors will be provided by the Melecio Ortiz American Legion Post 396.

Pallbearers will be: Onyx Benavidez, Daniel Espinoza Sr., Javier Dilley, Daniel Espinoza Jr., Onyx Espinoza, Chris Espinoza, Jared Dilley & Gavin Dilley

You may express your condolences, share your favorite memories, and sign the guestbook online at: www.joejacksonfuneralchapels.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care and direction of the funeral service professionals at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd., Laredo, Texas 78041; (956)722-8850.