Carlos MEDINA

2003 - 2020

MEDINA, Carlos Armando III With deepest sorrow, we announce the passing of Carlos Armando Medina III, 16, our loving son, grandson, brother, and friend. Carlos died January 20, 2020 from injuries he received in an automobile accident in Tampa, FL January 18. Born November 25, 2003 in Tampa, Florida, Carlos is survived by his mother, Odeime Medina; his grandmother, Lucia Brito; his siblings, Karla Amanda Medina and Christian Alexandro Medina; and his half-siblings, Jacqueline Marie Medina and Ray James Medina. He developed a very special relationship with his mother, never leaving the house without his trademark big smile, a hug, and an, "I love you, Mama." He was a mentor and a friend to his younger sister, Karla and brother Alex, and loved and respected his abuela, Lucia, deeply. Carlos attended Mabry Elementary, Coleman Middle School, and H.B. Plant High School in Tampa, FL. Carlos was known for his friendly, respectful attitude, beaming smile, and funny jokes. He would usually be the first to befriend new students. By middle school, Carlos had begun swimming daily with the Greater Tampa Swim Association ("GTSA") swim team where he developed deep friendships and a love for swimming. Carlos's constant smile and magnetic personality meant teammates from GTSA and even swimmers from other teams were drawn into his playful antics. His friends have no shortage of photographs, Instagram posts, Snapchats, or humorous TikTok dances with Carlos because he was always ready to share a laugh and a good time. Carlos also gave a strong athletic performance as a member of the Plant High School Swim Team where he swam freestyle events but even more importantly was always there to give his teammates a high-five, a hug, or words of encouragement. Students at Plant High School remember Carlos treating everyone as if he had known them forever and spreading smiles through his constant buzz of positive energy. His laughter was infectious and could be heard throughout the hallways on any given day. Carlos also found the time to work a part-time job three nights per week. Despite his young age, Carlos is remembered by his co-workers as a dedicated employee who never said no to a request to complete a task and always eager to do the job right. Unknown to many at the time of his passing, Carlos was planning to graduate from Plant High School this summer following his Junior year with a 5.29 grade point average. He had been exploring many pathways after graduation with the goal of one day becoming a commercial pilot. Bishop Emeritus Robert Lynch of the Roman Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg informed the family that Carlos was to be a recipient of a 4-year scholarship to Notre Dame University supported by the Diocese. Carlos's final offering of love was the gift of life to others. He was honored for his organ donation through the traditional Honor Walk at Tampa General Hospital. Hundreds of family and friends lined the hallways as he was transported to give his final gift to others. An amazing life to be passed forward. A Celebration of Life service will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church February 1, 2020 at 2:30 pm, located at 3012 W. Cherry Street, Tampa, FL 33607. In lieu of flowers, a contribution can be made to www.gofundme.com/f/help-coach-odeime-medina-and-family