Eric Donald (Jamal) Benigni, 33, passed away on September 28, 2024.

Eric Donald (Jamal) Benigni, 33, of Milford, CT passed away on September 28, 2024. Born on May 29, 1991, in New Haven, CT, he was the son of Donald and Anisa Benigni.

Eric, a lifelong resident of Milford, Connecticut, lived a life full of passion, love, and dedication to his family and friends. He graduated from Jonathan Law High School, where he excelled both academically and athletically, playing football from the age of 5 and continuing through his high school years.

After high school, Eric attended West Virginia University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business with a focus on Management Information Systems. His sharp intellect and drive led him to a successful career as a Senior IT Manager at Kearney & Company, where he was admired for his hard work, intelligence, and ability to lead and collaborate with his team.

Eric’s sense of humor and care for the team made those bad work days bearable.

An avid fisherman and golfer, Eric found peace and joy on the waters of Long Island Sound, fishing behind Charles Island with his father, brothers, nephew, and friends on his beloved 17.5-foot Mako boat. He was equally at home on the golf course, a hobby that brought him countless hours of happiness. He spent his final day playing a round with his brothers at Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona. In typical Eric fashion, he offered insight and encouragement, and parred his final hole to win.

Eric's charm, empathy, and kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He had the biggest heart and took care of everyone first before himself. Although the youngest of his siblings, his wisdom often guided his older brothers. He cherished the lessons they learned from each other. His family was everything to him, and he was the glue that held them together, bringing light and energy to every gathering.

Proud of his mixed Italian and Afghan heritage, Eric honored his roots and shared his pride with those close to him. He was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys, the New York Yankees and Tiger Woods, and his love of cooking, great food, and time spent on the water or at the beach were cornerstones of his life. Eric's presence will be missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and strength will live on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know him.

In addition to his beloved parents, Donald and Anisa, Eric is survived by his two beloved brothers David (Woo) Benigni and Chris (Qais) Benigni, sister-in-law Danielle Benigni, nephew Qais and nieces Willow and Ivy. As well as his best friend since kindergarten, Nicholas Timpanelli, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He leaves behind his beloved dog and constant companion, Dexter, and his hermit crab Hammy.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad Street, Milford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Mary Church, 70 Gulf St., Milford CT 06460 (MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH). Interment with Muslim Funeral Honors will follow at Milford Historic Cemetery, Gulf St, Milford CT.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Charles Island Reforestation LLC at www.charlesislandreforestation.com. Eric fished around Charles Island his entire life and restoring the island is something he always spoke passionately about. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.