ZAPATA, TEXAS---George P. Benitez 66, passed away on Friday, December 11, 2020 at his residence in Zapata, Texas.

George was born and raised in Victoria, TX with his five siblings.  He was the epitome of a hard worker from working the cotton fields every summer with his family at a young age to the oil field by the age of seventeen. Hard work was all he ever knew up until his retirement. He was married to the love of his life, JoAnn, on 4/26/80. She was his "Jo" and he was her "hun" for 40 years.  George was a huge sports fan and participant.  He played football in high school, coached his sons' baseball teams, was the proud father in the stands at their baseball and football games and later on in life cheered for his granddaughters at their softball games.  With their sons grown and so much love and wisdom to give, he and JoAnn fostered 49 kids during a four year time span ultimately adopting the last three. George was a strong and stern man but he also had the biggest heart. He was a true family man and well respected.  George had a great love for fishing and this is so apparent when you look at photos and hear stories. We find comfort knowing that George is at Peace.  Good Men must die but death cannot kill their name nor memory.

Mr. Benitez is preceded in death by his parents, Lucas and Leonor P. Benitez.

Mr. Benitez is survived by his wife, Jo Ann Benitez; sons, George L. (Gina) Benitez, Mathew Benitez, Timothy L. (Betty) Trevino, Justin R. Benitez; daughters, Amanda A. Benitez, Annie R. Benitez; grandchildren, Alana N. Benitez, Kaydence R. Benitez, Dannika A. Benitez, Alexander Trevino, Michael Trevino, Katerina Trevino; brothers, Enrique P. Benitez, Juan P. (Cecilia) Benitez; sisters, Julia Benitez-Martinez, San Juana (Alberto) Garcia, Yolanda Franco and by numerous nephews, nieces and other family members and friends.

Visitation hours will be held on Tuesday, December 15, 2020, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a wake at 7:00 p.m. at Rose Garden Funeral Home.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home Daniel A. Gonzalez, Funeral Director, 2102 N. US HWY 83 Zapata, Texas.