South Texas College mourns the loss of one of its founding board members.
Manuel Benavidez died Saturday of cancer. He was 57 years old.
Benavidez was the first to push for dual enrollment, which allows students to earn college credits while still in high school.
Texas State Rep. Ismale "Kino" Flores said on Monday that his friend will be remembered for the dedication he showed in providing educational opportunities for Rio Grande Valley students, especially those in Starr County.
"One of his daughters, Sofia, graduated with an associates degree before she graduated from high school," explained Flores. "Those were the opportunities Manuel worked so hard for, for all the residents Starr County."
South Texas College plans to honor Benavidez by naming a new facility in Starr County after him.
The funeral arrangements are as follows:
Location: Sanchez Funeral Home, 301 E. 2nd St., Rio Grande City, TX 78582 (956) 487-2525
Viewing: Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at 12:00 p.m. followed by a rosary at 7:00 p.m. Viewing will also be available on Wednesday, April 1, 2009 from 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.
Funeral Mass: Wednesday, April 1, 2009, 2:00 p.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 107 W. Private Lazaro Solis St., La Grulla, TX, (956) 487-3365
Memorial Service: A memorial service celebrating the life of Mr. Benavidez will follow the mass service at the Golden Hill Ballroom (Rd. 2360 & Hwy. 83), Alto Bonito, TX , (956) 487-4273, at approximately 4:00 p.m.
Scholarship fund information:
The family has established a memorial scholarship fund in Mr. Manuel Benavidez Jr.’s name. Donations can be made at:
Lone Star National Bank
2300 E. HW 83
Rio Grande City, TX
Acct. # 59929375
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