Patrick Benedetto

March 30, 2025

CHARLOTTE- Patrick Benedetto, 36, passed away on Sunday, March 30, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Patrick grew up with a sharp intellect, dry wit, and deep love for his family. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Asheville, then pursued both law and business at Louisiana State University. After being selected to the LSU Law Review, he transferred to Vanderbilt Law School, where he completed his J.D.

Patrick began his legal career as a corporate attorney with Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP in Houston and most recently worked for King & Spalding LLP in Charlotte. He was respected by colleagues for his intellect, disarming charm, and his ability to bring both levity and thoughtfulness to any room.

Patrick didn’t really tell jokes—he noticed them. The way a person phrased something, the awkward choreography of daily life, the strange little details most people missed—he had a gift for pulling humor out of thin air. Life with him was full of unexpected laughter, not because he tried to be funny, but because he couldn’t help seeing the humor hidden in plain sight. It wasn’t performative; he just genuinely thought the world was funny, and once you saw it through his eyes, you couldn’t help but laugh too.

He was also annoyingly athletic, good at just about everything he tried—surfing, skeet shooting, anything with a board. About a year into dating Carolyn, they took a trip to Lake Norman to go wakeboarding. He popped up on his first try, cruised across the wake, attempted a flip, and wiped out in spectacular fashion. She married him anyway. Ten years later, on a trip to Park City, he hurled himself down black diamonds on his first attempt at skiing. That was his way—fearless, occasionally upside down, and always wide open.

Patrick prepared the coffee every evening and served it to Carolyn in bed every morning—one of many thoughtful rituals that characterized his love. He was at his happiest surrounded by his girls: his wife, Carolyn Croughan Benedetto, and their daughter, Olivia Kate Benedetto. Most recently, he could be seen flying down the neighborhood hills beside Liv—him on a longboard, her on a scooter. Though she was usually cautious, next to her daddy, she would go as fast as she could.

He is also survived by his parents, Marianne and Greg Benedetto; his sister, Caitlin Benedetto; and a wide circle of extended family, friends, and colleagues who knew and loved him.

Patrick died of an accidental overdose after a long and valiant struggle. His family shares this in the hope that greater openness might encourage others to seek support.

A celebration of Patrick’s life will be held on Sunday, April 27, 2025 from 1:00 - 3:00 PM at Norfolk Hall, 2905 Griffith Street, Charlotte, NC.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Greenville Transitions, where a scholarship fund in Patrick’s name will support others in their journey toward recovery:

https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=DJV6VJTZMERME

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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Comments

  • Niebaum Family

    We recently learned of Patrick's passing and wanted to extend our deepest condolences to your family. We have many happy memories of Patrick from when our kids met and became friends while in pre-school.
    We are so very sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts,
    The Niebaum Family

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  • Vera Benedetto Oliver

    Greg, Marianne, and Caitlin~ I was heartbroken to hear about the loss of Patrick. Please know that my heart is with you all during this incredibly difficult time. I can't imagine the depth of your pain. In moments like these, it’s hard to understand why such things happen, but I pray that you find comfort in knowing that God’s love surrounds you. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” It is my hope that this truth brings you some peace in the midst of your sorrow. May Patrick's memory be a blessing for everyone who knew him. Love, Vera

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  • Michael Benedetto

    I am Patrick's uncle on my brother's side. This loss surely took the winds out of our sails and will forever affect our family. Patrick was, I believe a good husband and a great Dad. In hindsight, I didn't pay enough attention to the only nephew I had and be more active as our relationship.
    Our whole family will miss you Patrick and will treasure your memory.

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  • Micheal Stratton

    My deepest condolences. Patrick was one of my former students; I’m reminded of his quiet humor and true intellect. A kind soul who was a model for other students. His impact then and now will be felt for years to come.

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  • Benjamin Springgate

    I am very sorry for your loss. May light perpetual shine upon him.

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  • John Green

    I'm a work colleague of Patrick's. I was very fortunate to have gotten to know him over the last few years. Although I never actually met him in person, he and I spoke many times over the years by phone and video. I can honestly say that I always looked forward to speaking to him. The way you describe his sense of humor above is so perfect. Even in stressful situations, he had a natural ability to lighten the mood. We would frequently chat about our similar connections to North Carolina, and I remember him often telling me about his weekend time with his wife and daughter. I feel very lucky to have those memories with him. I'm so very sorry for your loss. I just wanted to make sure you knew what a positive impact he had on me. I will absolutely miss him and never forget him.

    Warm regards,
    John Green

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  • Melinda Keto

    What a beautiful obituary. Thank you for sharing Patrick's light and love. I wish I had words to help take away the feeling of loss and hurt. Sending love to you all.

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  • Sarah Knestrick

    Dear Carolyn—my heart is broken for you and little Olivia and for Patrick ‘s family. Walter and I have such fond memories of you and Patrick and Dalton on the boat with us. There is nothing sadder than losing a good person to drugs—as my family well knows. Thank you for being open about this scourge —be strong and know how much you are loved. Saying prayers. Xoxox

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  • Allison Rosen

    I’m so sorry for your loss, and the Rosens are sending love, warmth, and comfort to you in this difficult time. Know we are thinking of you, Olivia and Patrick.
    Much love to all of you.
    Sincerely,
    Allie, Anders and Garrett

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  • Katie Lamour (Eskew)

    I grew up down the street from the Benedetto family in Fort Lauderdale. I used to babysit Patrick and Caitlin from time to time. I have fond memories of Patrick's great sense of humor even as a young kid as well as his fun and kind-hearted side. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this difficult time.

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