I, Ramona Contreras Benitez, was born to two wonderful parents, Ysidora and Santiago Contreras, on October 20, 1946. I entered the kingdom of heaven on May 17, 2013.

I was one of 14 siblings and I had the best brothers and sisters anybody could ask for. I am a lifelong resident of Alamogordo where I graduated from Alamogordo High School in 1965. I have beautiful memories of both my childhood and my later years.

I am preceded in death by my parents and four sisters, Sandy Contreras, Mary Sarmiento, Cecilia Morales and Cenaida Beaty.

I am survived by my devoted husband Inez "Naya" Benitez and two wonderful sons, Jude Stogden and Jacob Benitez (wife, Angela), my beautiful and precious grandchildren; Alyssa, Jaylynn, Gabriel and Nevaeh. My surviving brothers are Eusebio "Chevo" Contreras (wife Lydia), Jimmy (wife Celia), Rudy (wife Sylvia), Eddie (wife Terry), Eloy (wife Betty), Ruben (girlfriend Wilma). My surviving sisters include Diana Ortega ( husband Joe), Rebecca Watson and Rachel Armendarez (husband Mike).

First and foremost, I am eternally grateful to the Lord for the many blessings He has given me. I also thank my family, nieces, nephews, my husband's children and my family at Gethsemane Baptist Church for their love and support. I love them all. Most of all, I thank my Lord for the beautiful gift of salvation where I will now live eternally with Him. I give thanks to all for your prayers and words of inspiration and may God's blessings be bestowed upon you always.

My memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, June 1, 2013 at Alamogordo Funeral Home Chapel with Hermano, Pastor Porfirio "Pilo" Rodriguez officiating. My brothers will serve as honorary pall bearers.

The Benitez Name family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Alamogordo Funeral Home to direct the arrangements. Cremation has taken place at PCS.