Ruben Benavidez, a cherished member of the Jacksonville community, passed away unexpectedly on April 27, 2024. His sudden departure has left his family, including his mother Gloria, grappling with not only their grief but also the financial burdens that accompany such a loss. In response, Ruben’s niece, Mercedes Cooper, initiated the Ruben Benavidez Memorial Fund to assist with the costs.
Ruben’s life was marked by the roles he filled and the lives he touched: a son, father, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. His niece, Lynn Cooper, reflects on the profound impact of his loss, emphasizing that "One of the tragedies of an unexpected loss is the cost of taking care of all the things left in its wake." The family’s GoFundMe campaign aims to support Gloria with all costs related to her son’s untimely death, driven by the belief that no parent should have to outlive their child.
The memorial fund, created just yesterday, has begun to gather support with a modest sum of $30 raised towards a $4,000 goal. Contributions from the community, although just starting, show a glimmer of solidarity and support.
Lucas Ortiz, Ruben’s nephew, shared a heartfelt message on Facebook, stating, "It is with a heavy heart that we must say goodbye to one of our loved ones." He recalls Ruben as the "coolest uncle" and thanks him for the "good memories and life lessons" imparted over the years. His post not only underscores the personal loss felt by those close to Ruben but also serves as a rallying cry for support, urging the community to contribute to the GoFundMe campaign to help alleviate the financial strain on Gloria.
Note:This post was written and edited by Aiden Ramirez, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.