Our family and our community sadly lost a pillar on Thursday, April 8, 2021, when Mr Michael Benito, favorably known as Mike passed away. His contributions to the lives of many include his long and distinguished career as head of the homicide division of the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit and the many clients he represented as a defense attorney in private practice. Mike is survived by his wife of 21 years, Adriana Benito, their daughter, Brianna Benito and son, Eddie Benito. Mike is also survived by his eldest son, Zack Benito and eldest daughter, Courtney Benito, as well as his brother, Joseph Benito (Nila). He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Joe Benito.
Mike grew up in Tampa and attended King High School where he excelled at baseball and was crowned Homecoming King in 1970. He then attended University of South Florida where he played for the Bulls baseball team. Thereafter, Mike attended Florida State University’s Law School where he earned his JD and went on to pass the Florida bar and began his legal career.
Mike’s first legal position was with the State Attorney’s office in Tampa where he soon became a standout as a prosecutor and very quickly rose to the level of prosecuting major and violent crimes. Over 9 years, Mike prosecuted some of Tampa’s most notorious killers.
Mike’s hallmark was his explosive closing arguments and his sarcastic exchange with the accused. He is best known for the 41 homicide cases he tried and prosecuted. Within the office, for younger attorney’s, Mike’s trial experience, legal acumen and personality was legendary.
After Mike’s distinguished career as one of Tampa’s top prosecutors, he went on to continue his successful trial career in private practice. Mike demonstrated his compassion and advocacy for his clients and in 2012 Mike joined the firm of Darrigo and Diaz. He continued in his criminal defense practice but, also, represented clients that were injured in accidents. More importantly, at the law firm Mike continued to support, encourage and mentor a new generation of lawyers.
Mike will be remembered by many for his compassion for people and his love and devotion to his family. Even with all his professional success, Mike would still say his greatest accomplishment was being a father to his four amazing children. He loved going to Siesta Key with the family each summer and seeing the latest show or newest comic during date nights with his loving wife. Laughing with his family and friends, rooting on his favorite team or watching his kids play sports filled him with great joy. His quick witted sense of humor and infectious laughter will be missed by all who knew him.
The family would like to give special thanks to: Dr. Glen Currier, Dr. Xavier Prida and Dr. Gisele Riscile. In lieu of flowers, the family would request that you make a donation to the following charities: Wounded Warrior Project or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday April 14, 2021 from 6-8pm at Blount & Curry Funeral Home Carrollwood, with sharing of memories by friends and family starting at 7pm. A funeral mass will be held the next day, Thursday April 15, 2021 at 12pm at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, followed by interment at the Garden of Memories Memorial Park.
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