Victoria Benavides, 85, of Valdosta, died 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. In the mid 1970’s, Victoria met and married Edward Benavides and they were married for 34 years, until his death in 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. Victory 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 and her husband, Angelica & Steffen Shellenbauer of Stuttgart, Germany, her brother, Ertvin Quast of Finland and her niece, Johanna Stanberg, also of Finland. She is also survived by great niece and nephew, Elias & Lukas Schellenbauer, an adopted niece, Dr. Katrina Hall and a close friend, Cindy Pegg.

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