Dr. Michael Fulghum McIlwain

Mike’s heart truly belonged to his family. He is survived by his loving wife Cristina Yarnoz McIlwain; their three children: Ella Carolina McIlwain, Grayson Michael McIlwain, and Lucia Alexandra McIlwain; his mother Linda Fulghum McIlwain; mother-in-law Jill Yarnoz; father-in-law Miguel Yarnoz; and siblings Laura McIlwain Cruse (Hugh), Kim McIlwain Smith (Doug), Virginia McIlwain, Daniel McIlwain, Lisa McIlwain, Tomas Espina; brother-in-law Michael John Yarnoz (Charmaine); and his beloved nieces and nephews, along with dogs Lola and Sadie. He was preceded in death by his father, Harris Hugh McIlwain.

Born on March 2, 1976, in Atlanta, Georgia, Mike proudly graduated from Berkeley Preparatory School, where he distinguished himself, most notably on the soccer field. Mike helped lead Berkeley’s team to its first two state championships in 1993 and 1994, and was named Florida’s Player of the Year in 1994. Mike had also helped lead his club team, the Temple Terrace Spirit, which was coached by his father, Harris, to a national championship in 1993.

Mike continued his academic and athletic journey at the University of Maryland, earning a Bachelor of Science degree while playing Division I soccer. As a member of a team that was consistently nationally ranked, he proudly contributed to the team’s ACC tournament championship in 1996.

Driven by a desire to serve others through healthcare, Mike pursued dentistry at the University of Florida College of Dentistry in Gainesville. There, he completed both dental school and specialized training in pediatric dentistry. His commitment to excellence led him to become a Diplomate and Fellow of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. He received extensive training that allowed him to provide a unique level of compassionate care to countless children throughout his career.

Mike joined McIlwain Dentistry, the family-owned practice founded by his uncle and mentor, Dr. James McIlwain, where he brought warmth, expertise, and an ability to make everyone around him feel at ease during every patient interaction. He grew the office into the multispecialty practice it is today, but his greatest joy was working daily in the family-style environment fostered with his partners and his incredible staff. Mike's love for his profession and his patients was evident to everyone. He generously donated his time and expertise to the Tampa Bay Cleft and Craniofacial Center and was also a proud member of numerous professional affiliations.

Mike’s love for soccer continued after college. He gave back generously as a youth coach with Tampa Bay United, mentoring young athletes, and he was particularly proud of coaching his son, Grayson’s, team for the past 12 years. Known for always saying “yes” when asked to help youth players or support local teams, Mike left an indelible mark on many families throughout the community.

Mike was Catholic and lived out his values through service to others, whether chairside at work or on the sidelines coaching soccer. A friend to everyone he met, Mike had a unique ability to bring people together. He was selfless, compassionate, and had the most infectious smile; it was impossible to be near Mike and not feel the pure joy that constantly radiated around him.

Dr. Mike Fulghum McIlwain will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to family and community, his exceptional expertise in pediatric dentistry, and his lifelong passion for soccer. May the memory of his smile, laughter, and unwavering positivity comfort and inspire us all in the future.

The family would like to thank all of the doctors and staff at Moffitt Cancer Center for their incredible care. A very special thank you goes to his oncologist, Dr. Mintallah Haider, who always treated Mike as a person, not just a patient. Her compassion, care, and brilliance are unmatched.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 12, 2025 at The Gathering Room of Armature Works, 1910 N. Ola Ave, Tampa, FL 33602 from 5-8pm.

Casual, colorful attire is welcome to honor a life that lit up every room.

In place of flowers, the family requests donations to the Moffitt Cancer Center or the Tampa Bay Cleft and Craniofacial Center.