Carmen Benavides

Carmen Fuentes Benavides, 89, of Waco, TX passed away Tuesday, October 25, 2022. Funeral Services will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 4, at Latin American United Methodist Church, 1320 Webster Rd, Waco. Burial will follow at Waco Memorial Park. The family will receive visitors from 6 -8 p.m., Thursday, November 3, at Pecan Grove Funeral Home, 3124 Robinson Drive, Waco.

Carmen was born August 4, 1933, in Bremond, TX, to Enrique and Carmen Fuentes. She was preceded in death by her Sister Mary Lopez and husband Alex, brother Henry, and brother David.

She is survived by husband of almost 70 years, Joe Benavides, son Joe Michael Benavides, daughter Brenda Lyon and husband Jon, granddaughter Nicole Lyon, and granddaughter Allison Jordan and husband Seth.

Carmen spent most of her career with Waco finance companies and the local Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. She also served years as Treasurer of Latin American United Methodist Church.

After retirement, she opened Mini Flea Market on Dutton Avenue to provide gently used items at low prices to help the community. She was later named by the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce as Businesswoman of the Year. And she continued providing bookkeeping support for husband Joe’s rental and home building businesses.

Most people described Carmen as smart, sweet, polite, humble and content. And they loved how she gave her undivided attention when they spoke to her. She was a proud wife and mother who boldly supported her husband and children.

The family would like to thank neighbors and care givers who provided so much loving help caring for Carmen.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory at www.pecangrovefuneral.com.