Nora Benavides Nee Rodriguez

Nora Benavides, 49, of Eastland, TX passed away March 10 in Abilene, TX after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. She was born in Eastland to Stella and Andres Rodriguez on October 19, 1965. Nora attended Eastland schools, graduating from Eastland High School in 1984. She attended Tarleton State University.

Nora married Oscar Benavides on March 8, 1997. On April 14, 1998 her pride and joy, Oscar Tomas, was born. Nora enjoyed working with the public at several places of employment, including her years at the City of Eastland where customers enjoyed being greeted by her smiling face. Her most recent employment was with the City of Odessa, also in a customer service position.

Nora was a devoted wife, mother and friend who enjoyed spending time with those she loved. She was well known as a crafter, and she put her creativity in action by making costumes for family members and friends. Nora’s baking projects and her homemade tortillas were enjoyed by many. She was adept at flower arrangement, and especially enjoyed decorating for the holidays. Animals had a special place in her heart, and she could never turn away a stray.

Nora was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Oscar and son, Tomas; three sisters – Sonia Robinson and husband Bill of Stephenville; Norma Ramirez and husband Sergio, and Sandra Vela and husband Ruben of Eastland. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, several great-nieces and great-nephews and a host of other family members.

Visitation will be Thursday, March 12 from 6-7 p.m. at Edwards Funeral Home, followed by the Rosary at 7 p.m., also at the funeral home. Funeral service will be held Friday, March 13 at 10 a.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church in Eastland with burial following in the Eastland Cemetery, directed by Edwards Funeral Home. A reception will follow at the first floor of the Connellee Hotel in Eastland.