Las Cruces, New Mexico
1941 - 2007
Thomas (Tommy) C. Benavidez, 66, of Las Cruces passed away on Thursday, November 1, 2007 at his home. He was born to Jennie C. and Ricardo F. Benavidez on March 7, 1941 in Rincon, New Mexico. Tommy enlisted in the United States Army: August 18, 1958. He was stationed in Oakland, CA, and later transferred to the USAR Control Group (REINF) VIII US Army Corps. Tommy served his country honorably in the United States Army.
From an early age, he started playing baseball and was recognized by the league as being the first to hit a home run over Maag Park Field. He enjoyed the outdoors and before he became ill, would spend his spare time doing what he liked best, which was fishing and hunting. Tommy was a hard worker, a carpenter by trade, who would always volunteer to help family and friends. He was a strong and straightforward individual who, even in death, wanted to remain private. He had been in poor health for several years and constantly expressed his desire that no services be planned, and asked his family and friends to respect his wishes.
Survivors include his long-time companion, Norma McNeely; one son, Tommy Benavidez Jr.; two daughters: Lisa K. Duran and husband Anthony, D'Anna Benavidez-Sullivan-husband Darryl Sullivan; six Grandchildren and two Great-Grandchildren. Two Brothers: Dickie Benavidez and wife Yolanda, Sammy Benavidez and wife Lisa; four Sisters: Emma Lyles and husband Ed, Lupe Luera and husband Ignacio, Virginia Altamirano and husband Manny and Martha Garcia and husband Memo and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Jennie C. and Ricardo F. Benavidez and a brother Albert C. Benavidez.
Tommy will be greatly missed by his family and friends and his beloved girls and faithful companions: Ginger, Kelly, Cleo and Rosie, who everyone that knew him knew were his pride and joy.
Cremation has taken place; and at Tommy's request, no services are planned. Funeral arrangements were made by Baca's Funeral Home.
Please visit our online guestbook at www.lcsun-news.com.
Our deepest sympathy to you for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Juanita, Amelia, Daniel, & Silvio Benavidez
Juanita Benavidez-Garcia
November 06, 2007 | Scottsdale, AZ
Dickie, Landie, Norma, and Benavidez family, I was sorry to hear of Tommy's passing. May God bless you all.
Rosella Romero
November 05, 2007 | Las Cruces, NM
Dickie,Landie, Norma and the Benavidez Family:
My deepest sorrow for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family.
Adela & Lalo Rodriguez Rodriguez
November 05, 2007 | Las Cruces, NM
Our deepest condolences to the family
Eduardo Perea
November 05, 2007 | El Paso, TX
dear uncle tom i have really missed you and sister misses you to. my last game i interseptd 4 passes and ran then for a touchdown.grandma says you have a new body and you wentto heaven. did you see your mom. i love you uncle tom. can you come back i realy really miss you.
Steven Gay
November 05, 2007 | Las Cruces, NM
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Daniel Loya
November 05, 2007 | Las Cruces, NM
Uncle Dickie and Auntie Landie,
Please know that I am very sorry for your loss. Your brother meant so much to you and Auntie Landie and these days will be very hard. My prayers are with you always. Lots of love.
Beatrice Lunsford
November 05, 2007 | Las Cruces, NM
Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Tommy my cousin who I will always treasure good memories in my heart. Love George and Lolie Herrera.
George Herrera
November 05, 2007 | Las Cruces, NM
To Dickie, Landie, Norma, and all the Benavidez Family:
With deepest sympathy, un gran abrazo para todos. You are in my thoughts and I pray for your well being and strength of spirit.
Delfina Amezaga
November 05, 2007 | Las Cruces, NM
