Bennie Nell Andrew, 86, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on May 3, 2025 in San Antonio, TX. She was born 12 Jun 1938 in Caldwell, TX. She is survived by her son Larry Lee Williams (Christine) of San Antonio, TX. Sister Almarie Williams of Caldwell, TX. Grandchildren, Edward De Leon Jr. (Destiny) of Austin, TX. Jonathan Ray De Leon (Frances) of San Antonio, TX, and Latoya Charise Williams of San Antonio, TX. Great grandchildren Edward De Leon III, of Bozeman, MT, Aaliyah Rose De Leon of Austin, TX. Richard “Ricky” Lee Suarez of San Antonio, TX. Great Great granddaughter Bravery Rose De Leon of Bozeman, MT, and many cousins, nephews and nieces.
Bennie is preceded in death by her mother Rachel Seley Allen Tates, father Auston Williams. Her children, Deborah Ann Tates, and Thomas Albert Hall, Jr. Sisters, Cora Lee Tates, Nettie Beatrice Tates Williams, Bessie Dell Tates, Albertine Tates Morgan, Lillie Mae Tates Donnelly, Cristana “Christine” Williams Munson. Brothers, Joseph “Jody” Lewis Tates, Elige Tates, Sr., Baby Boy Tates, AustaLee Williams, David Lee Tates.
Bennie was a free spirit who embraced life to the fullest. Everyone who knew her will always remember her fiery personality—whether it was her playful roll of her eyes, the scrunch of her nose, or the way she would suck her teeth in playful defiance. Later in life, she even added a little skip to her step! A true reflection of her lively nature. Bennie was truly one of a kind. In her late twenties, around 1967, Bennie made a courageous decision to move to New York with her two young sons. There, she worked for several years at Gimbels Department Store before eventually returning to Texas. She spent some time living with her son Larry in San Antonio before relocating to Midland, where she was surrounded by her extended family. Bennie dedicated many years of her life to caregiving, a role that showcased her compassion and strength. In 2003, she became an active member of the Salvation Army in Midland, faithfully devoting her time to helping others. She especially loved working with mentally challenged children, building deep bonds of affection and trust. In 2019, Bennie moved back to San Antonio to be closer to her son and family, where she spent her final days surrounded by loved ones. She gave her life to the Lord and firmly believed in Jesus Christ as her Savior. Bennie’s vibrant spirit, loving heart, and unwavering faith will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 1pm- 3 pm at Callaway-Jones Funeral Home, 3001 S. College Avenue, Bryan, TX. A funeral service will follow at 4pm at the Old Bethlehem Church, 5306 FM2039 in Caldwell, TX (Tunis). Inurnment will be held at Old Bethlehem Cemetery soon after the funeral services. Share words of comfort with the family at www.CallawayJones.com
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