Jared Rocco Benyola (1988-2024) was a funny, caring, loving and loyal son, uncle, brother, teacher,
mentor and friend. Born in Palm Beach Gardens Florida on Mother’s Day 1988, he later moved with
his family to Stuart Florida. The first spark of interest in music was instilled in him by his 5th grade
music teacher and was further ignited by his middle school band teacher. By the end of High
School, he had a full on passion for music education, as well as a mentor and friend in his High
School Band Director. This passion pushed Jared to pursue a Bachelor of Music Education Degree
from Florida State University and he later settled in Spring Hill Florida as the Band Director for
Weeki Wachee High School.
Jared’s adult life and career was dedicated to his fellow peers, students, mentors and friends.
Everyone who knew him was struck by his passion and dedication to music and teaching. He
sacrificed his free time and gave endlessly to the support of the Weeki Wachee band program and
beyond. Being a leader in music and touching the lives of his students was his ultimate goal, and
his impact far surpassed his dreams.
Jared is survived by his loving mother, who has been by his side day and night throughout his illness
and health struggles the last several years; sister, Melissa Rodriguez; nieces Amari Rodriguez and
Eliana Rodriguez, who were the joy of his life. He wanted nothing more than to see his nieces grow
up and no doubt he will be looking down and watching over them from above. Scattered throughout
the country/world, he has left behind too many Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and family friends to name
and he loved all of them dearly.
It is the wish of his family to continue his legacy in helping students who have a love and passion for
music to continue on and become musicians and educators. This is a way to pay forward all the
support and love Jared received by his own mentors and those who took great pleasure in
witnessing his love of music. In lieu of flowers, please email Melissa Rodriguez at
[email protected] if you wish to make a donation to provide scholarship funds in his name to
talented musician students pursuing a higher education in music. It was Jared’s life goal to touch
just one life and he accomplished that many times over.
Jared’s celebration of life will be held on 1pm, Saturday, November 23rd at Weeki Wachee Highschool,
12150 Vespa Way, Brooksville, FL 34614. There are several hotels in the surrounding
area for out of town family and friends. Please secure a reservation if needed as soon as possible,
as this is the week of Thanksgiving. This information, as well as any additional info, will be posted to
Jared’s Facebook page. Please bring with you a peaceful spirit and your love of music to celebrate
the best son, brother, uncle and friend anyone could ever have.