Sydney Rae Benveniste

Sydney Rae Benveniste, age 21, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, March 1st, 2022 in Redlands, CA. She was born September 6th, 2000 at Redlands Community Hospital to Richard and Andrea (Canales) Benveniste. Sydney graduated from Redlands East Valley Highschool in 2019 and attended Azusa Pacific University, receiving both academic and athletic scholarships. Although the years in her life were short, Sydney made a lasting impact on anyone she encountered, especially those in the Redlands and APU communities.
Deeply involved in the swim community, Sydney was an accomplished athlete, holding records across multiple teams in Southern California. Her specialties were butterfly and freestyle. In these strokes, she qualified and competed at the National level. Sydney swam for REV and was part of the title winning 200 Medley Relay in 2018 which was her most coveted high school swim experience. She continued her swimming career at APU and was a proud Cougar, placing 2nd in the 200 fly her freshman year. Although she loved to race, Sydney was a teammate first and could always be seen at the end of her fellow swimmers' lanes cheering the loudest with her raspy, spirited voice. More than a swimmer, Sydney had a heart for our community and a bold, inspiring faith.
Sydney Rae was a four year member of Kimberly Juniors and served as President for the 2018-2019 class. In this role, she held both KJ and Redlands' traditions close to her heart; embracing her oath of living each day to accomplish something, not merely to exist. During her 3rd year with the organization, Sydney lost her father Richard to cancer, however she would put on her "sailor uniform" and attend meetings, even in the wake of heartbreak. Sydney believed the organization, and values taught, were shaping her into the lady she was to become.
Of all the things Sydney held close to her heart, the most important was her faith. She attended Trinity Church from birth and chose a college that put "God First" as she did. Sydney lived a bold, authentic faith and had no problem walking up to someone and asking how she could pray for them. Although she was not perfect, she knew God's love was; helping countless people in their walk with the Lord. This is how we know she is at peace in heaven with her Dad.
Sydney Rae was preceded in death by her father, Richard Benveniste (2018) and is survived by her mother, Andrea Benveniste, and brother, Jacob Benveniste.
Family, friends, and those whose lives Sydney touched are invited to a memorial service at Trinity Church in Redlands, CA (1551 Reservoir Road) on April 2nd, 2022 at 11:00 AM. Sydney Benveniste will be laid to rest at Hillside Memorial Park in a private service.
Sydney was always unapologetically herself. She had a bold, wild love for life and the Lord. Her virtues of acceptance and love should serve as an example for all as we hold her memory in our hearts.