Sophia Darlynn Beene

In Loving Memory of Sophia D. Benavides Beene

Sophia Benavides Beene was born on March 15, 1949, in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico, to Luis Emilio Benavides and his beloved wife, Sophia Broyles Benavides. She was the first of eight children in a family devoted to faith and service. Her parents were missionaries who faithfully worked to establish churches along the United States–Mexico border through the Methodist Church, laying a spiritual foundation that would shape Sophia’s life in profound ways.

Sophia often said she lived two lives—one for herself and one for God. Her calling into missionary work began in 1984 alongside her husband, James J. Beene. Together, they worked in Mexico and throughout Central and South America, traveling to remote regions—including deep within the Amazon jungle—to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

As the years progressed, Sophia and James dedicated much of their work to the indigenous communities of southern Mexico. Their passion led to the founding of a school near Oaxaca, in the town of San Francisco de la Chigolo. There, Sophia’s impact was transformative. With her education and fluency in Spanish, she mentored, rescued, and trained countless young people—equipping them not only for ministry but for meaningful lives of purpose. Many of these young people went on to become missionaries, doctors, scientists, musicians, teachers, and engineers, all grounded in strong Christian principles and a heart for service.

Sophia’s strength was forged early in life. After the loss of her mother at just 14 years old, she made a promise to always apply herself and pursue excellence in her studies. She honored that promise by earning multiple advanced degrees and studying at Oxford for her doctorate in theology. Her commitment to education became a cornerstone of her legacy, one she faithfully passed on.

A gifted musician and operatic soprano, Sophia had a deep love for music and a keen eye for nurturing talent. She encouraged and developed young musicians across many genres, many of whom now serve in their local congregations.

Sophia leaves behind her two sons, James J. Beene II and Jones C. Beene V, who blessed her with seven grandchildren, as well as her granddaughter, Margret Nicole Moses, who gave her the joy of a great-granddaughter. She is also survived by her siblings Joyce Nazimek, Don Benavides, Sharman Brooks, Dr. Moses Benavides, and Abraham Benavides.

A woman of unwavering faith, Sophia endured years of physical affliction with grace and resilience. Through every trial, she remained steadfast—continually praising God and giving thanks in all things. Her life was a testament to faith in action, love without condition, and service without end.

Her legacy is beautifully captured in the words of the Scriptures:

“And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.” — 1 Corinthians 13:13

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” — Matthew 25:23

Sophia’s life was one of extraordinary devotion, compassion, and enduring impact. She will be deeply missed, but her work, her faith, and her love will continue to live on through all those she touched.

The family will recieve friends 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Saturday, March 28, 2026. The graveside will be announced at a later date.

Those unable to attend may send condolences to https://www.laycock-hobbs.com/obituaries/sophia-beene

Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home is in charge of local arrangements