It is with great sorrow that we announce the early passing of Paula Jean Benavidez, caused by her second bout of a very aggressive cancer. Paula took her last breath with her parents by her side, comforting and holding her.

Paula Jean was born December 19th, 1963 to Paul and Rita Benavidez, the only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Benavidez.

Paula was a devoted Christian giving her time to Sagebrush Church. Paula enjoyed drinking wine, dancing, and listening to Aerosmith, Santana and John Mellencamp. She loved cooking for her loved ones and surrounding herself with the people she cared about, going to concerts, relaxing at the casino and going shopping. She mostly enjoyed working on her garden being surrounded by all of her beautiful flowers and hard work. Paula was part of the Casa Benavidez restaurant, where she worked for 35 years as a front manager, where she was able to build friendships and enjoy the company of many customers who came to love her.

Paula's best friend was her mother Rita, they loved spending time together whether it was going to Vegas to gamble, getting their nails done or simply being together. Paula's favorite holiday was Christmas, she went above and beyond decorating and loved finding the perfect gifts for all her loved ones. Paula Jean passed November 28th, 2022 joining her two baby brothers, Charles Lawrence and James Francisco who are now holding their sister in heaven with our Lord Jesus.

Paula is survived by her two sons, Gabriel and wife Amber, James and wife Jamie; her two daughters, Andrea and Fiancé Brian, Taylor and husband Carlito; her parents, Rita and Paul; brothers, Paul, Mark and Glenn, and cousin Debra Jean, who Paula considered a sister and best friend; grand-children, Jerome, Alexis, Gabriel Jr., Jayden, James Jr., Mila and Scarlette Paula-Rose, and her great granddaughter Gianna. Also, she is survived by many aunts and uncles who loved her very much.

We thank Amber and Debra for giving Paula the upmost care and love all the way until her passing.

Paula loved dearly her children and grandchildren, and all surrounding family. She was a beautiful woman inside and out. Her smile and lively spirit will be dearly missed by all.

Services will be held at Sagebrush Riverside, 6440 Coors Blvd. NW., on Monday, December 19th , 2022 at 12:00 noon, on her 59th Birthday. Her burial services will follow at Placitas Cemetery. The reception location will be announced at burial.