Cecilia Benitez, 66, was born on November 22, 1957, in Mexicali, Mexico to Jose Rivera and Paula Silva. Cecilia entered into her eternal rest on January 6, 2024, in Downey, California.
Cecilia was the cherished matriarch of a vibrant and close-knit family. Since the birth of her first grandchild in 1994, her grandchildren—Michelle Rivera, Michael Rivera, Cristina Gomez, Robert Gomez, Emma Navarro, Alvaro Andres Montano, Anahi Montano, Abigail Torres, Luna Citlalli Vargas, Sofia Rio Benitez, and Azul Flores Vargas—became the center of her world, filling her life with immeasurable pride and joy. They will miss her dearly.
Cecilia was a true lover at heart, embodying passion and dedication in every aspect of her life. From her love for soccer to her enchantment with Cinderella, she found joy in a multitude of interests. Her love extended beyond hobbies to cherished moments spent with friends and family, both in the United States and Mexico. Gift-giving, dining out, and wholehearted participation in all celebratory events were among the many expressions of her vibrant spirit. Her love for love itself was evident in the roles she played – a cherished friend, a nurturing mother, a devoted sister, and a multitude of other meaningful connections. Cecilia's enthusiasm for life and her ability to infuse love into every role she embraced made her a beacon of warmth and affection.
Cecilia is survived by her loving family: Daughters, Patricia Rivera of Bellflower, Paola Arenas of Santa Fe Springs, Sara Arenas (Juan Antonio Torres) of Riverside, Cecilia Benitez of Downey, Victoria Benitez (Fernando Torres) of Santa Fe Springs, Raquel Vargas (Martin Alfonso) of Downey, 4 Grandsons, 7 Granddaughters, Sisters, Hermelinda Rivera of La Puente, Evangelina Rivera of Mexicali, and Maria Luisa Fausto of Fontana, and numerous nieces and nephews. Cecilia will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved her.
Cecilia is predeceased by 6 of her loving siblings.
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