Cleofas (Padilla) Benavidez was born April 9, 1923. She was born in a place called La Caniada close to a community known as El Rito in New Mexico. She worked very hard as young girl. Her family used to make syrup and she worked in the fields. Cleofas' brothers were Sotero, Furtoso, Fildelfio, Arsenio, and Candelario. Her only surviving sibling is Onecimo Padilla. She had one sister was Miquela - the two were close and visited often. In this small community in New Mexico; they married opposite siblings. Cleofas Padilla married Jesus Benavidez, Miquela Padilla married Antonio Benavidez and her brother Onecimo Padilla married Rafelita Benavidez. For this reason the family says that they are strongly related with strong genes. She had a close relationship with Rafaelita and her nephew Rudy who have both passed. She was very proud of a rosary that Rudy had given her. Cleofas enjoyed making blankets, she loved to knit and crochet. She made manteles (dollies) and taught her daughters and granddaughters this art. She enjoyed cooking and made various specialities; like bread, bread pudding, tortillas, and panocha. She loved to have company and whenever someone would visit she was quick to offer something to eat. She was of strong faith. She went to church with her husband and and they prayed in their home with their children. She had spiritual candles lit throughout her home. It is certain that she lit them with special intentions for those she loved.
She is preceded in death by her husband; Jesus Maria Benavidez, infant son Herminio, sons Rudy, Phil, and her daughter Dora.
Cleofas is survived by her children. Brigido (Emily), Jose Ramon (Ruth), Ofelia LeFebre, Angie Vasquez, Robert (Eleanor), Matias, Viola (Dan), Dimas (Rose). She is also survived by her brother, Onecimo Padilla, Son-in-Law, John Nucci and Brother-in-Law, Luciano Benavidez. She is survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great- great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends.
Cleofas loved her family. It was only fitting that she pass with her family around her as she took her last breathe on April 1, 2012. She has given us the gift of life and we return her to our Heavenly Father, Lord Jesus Christ. Que Dios te Bendiga!
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
April 6, 2012
Cheri Wilkerson
I met Cleo at Westwinds after my mother was admitted. She sat next to her and I would go every day to help feed my mother and help Cleo or just pat her hand. We could not communicate well as I do not speak spanish. However, I became very attached to her over time. She would always smile and wave to me and let me give her a hug everyday. I miss this sweet lady.
April 5, 2012
Maggie Benavidez-Villarreal
I remember my Mom, Bernice taking us to visit you and Grampo when we were little kids. You two were always so welcoming. It seemed we would play at your house for hours. As we grew older we didn't visit as much but one day as a grown woman, I went to your house, knocked on your door & you still knew exactly who I was. Thank you for the memories.
April 5, 2012
Gloria Bernal-Martinez
Mrs. Benavidez, I knew you when I was a little girl and have fond memories of you. You were my Brother-in-Law, Phil's, Mom and I know he loved you very much. Now you are together in Heaven and at peace. May you rest in Peace.
April 5, 2012
Berlinda Benavidez
Tia you and my grandma are together once again, that is what gives me peace of mind through hard times like these, I only ask tia that you give my grandma and grandpo a kiss from me and tell them I love them and miss them dearly. Until we meet again in paradise adios tia :(...
April 4, 2012
Isabel Baca
Grandma I will miss you very much. Not only were you my Grandma you were my Nina. So there was always a special bond. You alway greeted me with mi Chavella, mi hita and with the biggest smile ever. It was because of you that I enjoy crocheting. I always loved the dollies and curtains that you made. I am sure that grandpa was there to meet you on the day that you left. I will always love you with all my heart. Isabel (Chavella) Baca
April 4, 2012
"Grandma, so many memories your fresh tortillas, your beatiful quilts, your commitment to my grandfather....I WILL MISS YOU DEEPLY....may you rest in peace..you will never be forgotten.............valerie ann benavidez
April 3, 2012
Peggy Benavidez-Lopez
April 3, 2012
Peggy Benavidez-Lopez
Grandma, I will miss you very much. I can remember how you greeted me by calling me Hita. We've shared the same birthday, my birthday won't be the same. Birthday greetings will be sent to you in Heaven. I know that my Dad will miss you that he loved you very much. My Mom will miss you too. We were blessed to have you in our lives. Thank you for your many blessings. Que Dios Te Bendiga. Para siempre te amo. Peggy
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