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We lost a very dear person in Daniel Albert Benitez, age 63, of Dallas, Texas. He passed away after an illness, on November 18, 2025. He was born October 18, 1962 in Weslaco, Texas to Hector Benitez, Sr. and Aurora De Los Santos. Daniel grew up in the Rio Grande Valley and graduated from Weslaco High School, Class of 1980. With a natural talent and passion for food, he went on to attend culinary school, becoming a wonderfully gifted cook. Daniel was known as a true MacGyver of the kitchen; able to create an unforgettable meal out of the simplest ingredients, always with creativity and flair. He later pursued higher education at UT Pan American in Edinburg, Texas, earning his bachelor’s degree in social work. After graduation, he moved to Dallas, where he began his career as a probation court liaison. Over the years, Daniel also worked with the Lifewalk AIDS Foundation and held various retail positions, bringing compassion, diligence, and kindness into each role. In 1995, Daniel met the love of his life, David Isom, and together they built a beautiful life centered around love, laughter, and shared adventures. Daniel had a deep affection for his cats: Binx and Gracie, and found joy in caring for them. Daniel’s creativity extended beyond the kitchen; He had a remarkable eye for interior decorating and loved transforming spaces, especially during the holidays. He was always eager to help his mother and sister rearrange, redesign, and breathe new life in their homes. He also had a love for travel and cherished trips to Paris, Cape Cod, Provincetown, and New York City. With an appreciation for the finer things in life, Daniel enjoyed discovering beauty in art, décor, food, and culture wherever he went. Daniel will be remembered as friendly, kind, and sometimes quietly observant. His warm spirit, gentle humor, and artistic touch made a lasting impression on all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and will remain forever in our hearts.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Hector and Aurora Benitez; brother Hector Benitez, Jr., sister Diana Benitez and brother Luis Benitez.
He is survived by his loving partner of 30 years, David Isom; their cats: Binx and Gracie; brother David and wife Maddie Benitez, sister Rose Benitez, sister Linda Benitez, sister Laurie and husband Thom King; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family members and dear friends.
A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Daniel Albert Benitez, please visit our floral store.