Willie Benavides

Willie Benavides, 75, passed away Monday, March 4, 2024, after a short illness.

Willie was born to Joe and Juanita (Vera) Benavides on October 27, 1948, in Big Spring, TX. He was one of seven sons born to the Benavides Family. Willie spent his youth in Jayton, TX where he attended school.

Willie is a veteran of the Vietnam War. For his service, he earned a Purple Heart. He served honorably in the Army from April 2, 1969 to January 28, 1971.

Willie moved to Stamford in 1991, where he worked as a self-employed paint contractor. On July 4, 1976, Willie married Marla Graves. Willie and Marla were members of the Temple Baptist Church. Willie was a devoted husband, father, and granddaddy when in public, but at home and at the golf course he was lovingly known as “Moose” by the grandbabies and friends. Willie was an avid golfer and motorcycle rider. He loved to eat good food, work around the house, collect guns, and go to old car shows. He also enjoyed going to garage sales and having garage sales to sell some of the treasurers he collected.

Mr. Benavides is survived by his wife, Marla Benavides of Stamford, TX; daughter and son-in-law, Christina and Jeff Greene of Abilene, TX; daughter, Teresa Benavides and husband, Brison Daily of San Antonio, TX; brother, Larry Benavides, brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Estella Benavides of Jayton, TX, brother, Mike Benavides of Haskell, TX; 7 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild and other relatives and friends.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Joe and Juanita Benavides, three brothers, Joe Benavides, Freddy Benavides and Raul Benavides.

Visitation will be Wednesday, March 6, 2024, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Tankersley Funeral Home (807 Columbia) Stamford, TX. Willie’s life will be celebrated during Funeral Services at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, March 7th at the Tankersley Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jesse Morton officiating. Burial will follow at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Abilene, TX at 2:00 p.m. under the direction of Tankersley Funeral Home.