Victoria Benavides, 85, of Valdosta, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday May 24, 2026, at her residence. Born on August 22, 1940, she grew up in Stuttgart, Germany and trained there as a nurse. She moved to the United States in the early 1960’s. On September 19, 1975, Victoria married Edward Benavides. They were married for 34 years, until his death on March 13, 2010.

For many years Ed and Victoria were involved in property management of the properties they owned, including Hillcrest Apartments. She was also involved in several events within the community including the Garden Club, the Order of the Eastern Star and she was devoted to her church, Messiah Lutheran Church. She enjoyed playing bridge with her friends for the majority of her life until the deterioration of her eyesight prevented her from playing. She also enjoyed cooking for family and friends. In addition she liked to crochet and needle point different items for friends and family and in her earlier years she enjoyed sewing. Victoria was a beautiful bright person who was always generous with her family, friends and her church. She was an encourager and always stayed in touch with her family in Germany as well.

Survivors include her niece, Angelika Schellenbauer of Stuttgart, Germany; her great nephews, Elia & Lukas Schellenbauer; her brother, Etvin Quast of Finland; her niece, Johanna Stenberg, of Finland; and her great nephew and nieces, Rudolf, Stella, and Frida. She is also survived by an adopted niece, Dr. Katrina Hall and many close and loved friends. Victoria is preceded in death by her parents, August and Emilia Quast, and her brother, Wilhelm Quast.

A celebration of life will be held for Victoria at 11 am on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at Messiah Lutheran Church. Pastor Richard Lohmeyer will officiate. The family will receive friends at the church from 10 am until service time on Saturday. Burial will occur at a separate time at McLane Riverview Memorial Gardens. Condolences may be conveyed to the family on the obituary page of www.mclanecares.com. Carson McLane Funeral Home