Antonio (Tony) Benavides Jr., 99, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2023 surrounded by his family.  He was born on August 5, 1924 to Antonio Benavides and Carlota Lopez Benavides.
He is survived by his children: Tony Benavides III and wife Rosa, Melba Benavides, Elsa Piekielniak and husband John; Sister, Grace Saenz; Brother, Roberto Benavides and wife, Irma.  He is also survived by his grandchildren, Tony Benavides IV, Jacob and Ann Marie Piekielniak and great granddaughter, Lola Benavides.
He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 72 years, Viola Benavides and brother, Leopoldo Benavides.
When people refer to the Greatest Generation, they are talking about Tony.  He proudly served in the Army during World War II. Tony attended night school for eight years while supporting a growing family and graduated from the University of Tulsa in 1961.  He spent his entire career in Production Geology with Exxon U.S.A. working in Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Kingsville and finally Houston.  In retirement, Tony enjoyed golf as an active member of Northgate Country Club.
Tony was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.  His true love was his family.  Everyone who ever knew Tony will fondly remember his smile that would light up a room, his integrity, genuine kindness, and his generosity.  Tony would tell you the key to his longevity was his dedication to Happy Hour each afternoon at five o'clock with a glass of wine.  Most importantly though, Tony was a man of strong faith and lead by example.  His family and many close friends referred to him as Saint Tony for his complete selflessness.
The family will be holding a private funeral mass and burial at Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Condolences can be sent to Klein Funeral Home in his name at 16131 Champion Forest Drive, Spring, TX 77379.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Tony's honor to Catholic Charities of Houston, www.catholiccharities.org or 2900 Louisiana St., Houston, TX 77006.