Antonio Benedi

Antonio (Tony) Benedi, 70, of Springfield, Virginia, passed away on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at Inova Fairfax Heart and Vascular Institute in Fairfax, Virginia, following complications from open-heart surgery. As he entered the Lord’s presence, he was surrounded by his immediate family—two sons and his wife, Maria.

Born to Claudio F. Benedi Beruff and Gladys Garriga Macias on August 5, 1955, in Havana, Cuba, Tony and his family fled communism in 1961, finding refuge in the United States—eventually settling in Arlington, Virginia.

Antonio married his first love, Maria Teresa Fernandez, at Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Falls Church, Virginia, on October 8, 1983.

While putting himself through college, Antonio spent years counseling troubled teens as a youth coordinator, devoted countless hours to helping people in crisis as a suicide hotline operator, and became involved in local politics. He graduated from George Mason University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.

Through years of dedication and hard work, Antonio built a distinguished career in public service. He served in the Reagan administration before joining President George H.W. Bush's White House, where he worked as a member of the Advance Team and later as Deputy Director of Scheduling. He also provided occasional assistance to the administration of President George W. Bush.

Aside from his professional accomplishments, Antonio was known to light up every room he entered. His loving nature, unwavering convictions, natural charisma, and incredible sense of humor made him beloved by family and friends.

Antonio was preceded in death by his brother, Alberto Benedi; his mother, Gladys Benedi; his father, Claudio F. Benedi; and his brother, Claudio Benedi.

Antonio is survived by his loving wife, Maria Benedi; his children, Antonio R. Benedi (Tony) and Robert J. Benedi (Jamie); his grandchildren, Nolan and Sloane; his sister, Gladys Lopez; his twin brother, Hector Benedi; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Antonio's life. A funeral service will be held on Monday, August 24, 2026, at 1:30 P.M. at Saint Thomas More Cathedral in Arlington, Virginia. Burial will take place immediately afterward at Columbia Gardens in Arlington, Virginia.

Rest in peace, Antonio. We will always carry our love for you in our hearts.