Julia Barrientos Benitez left us too early on the morning of October 19, 2013. She was born in San Jose, CA on September 22, 1953 and was 60 years old. She was raised in Gilroy where she also raised her family. For those who were fortunate to know her, she was the most loving and giving person. Julia's home was always open and anyone that stopped by always felt welcomed. She enjoyed spending quality time with family and watching her grandchildren grow gave her the most joy. Her laughter, storytelling, and comedic anecdotes will be missed greatly.

She leaves behind her parents, Manuela and Emilio Castillo, siblings, Jenny DeLaCueva and Raymond, Bertha and Carlos Barrientos and her children Jacob, Jason, Monica, and Kim, and 7 grandchildren. Those preceded her in death are grandmother Julia Alfaro, father Ramon Barrientos, sister Sarah Tanaka and brother Elpidio Morales.

Celebration of life services will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, October 26 at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church - 651 Broadway, Gilroy. Relatives and friends are welcome for refreshments following the memorial service at the Veteran's Building - 74 W 6th Street, Gilroy. (Burial will be held in private.)