It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Benjamin Jesse Tuffley, a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend, who left us unexpectedly on August 10, 2025, while vacationing with his family in Bradenton, Florida. Benjamin was born on December 3, 1980, in Kendallville, Indiana and most recently resided in Keystone Heights, Florida.
Benjamin was the cherished son of Deanna (John) Carmichael and the late Charles (Melissa) Tuffley. He was preceded in death by his father, Charles, brothers, Travis and Charlie Tuffley, and stepsister, Katie Carmichael. As well as his grandparents, Ben and Dorothy Edsall, Jesse and Monna Tuffley, uncles Ronnie Tuffley, Don Polly, and John Engerman.
Benjamin is survived by his devoted wife, Ashley Tuffley, whom he married in a beautiful ceremony in Hawaii on October 13, 2012, after being domesticated since 2005. Together, they cherished their three wonderful sons: Collin, Damien, and Jesse, who were the light of his life. The love Ben gave his wife and kids was unconditional. His perseverance and determination shines through the life he built and
provided for them. He found his happiness in their happiness.
Benjamin's professional journey began at Performance Food Group (PFG) in Kendallville, Indiana, in 2006. His hard work and dedication led him to transfer to their Gainesville facility in 2021, where he served as a receiving supervisor. His colleagues admired his commitment to his work and his ability to create a positive environment wherever he went.
Outside of work, Ben enjoyed mushroom hunting, cooking, listening to music/podcasts, Magic the Gathering, 80's videogames and spending time and conversating with family and friends. He enjoyed casual moments of relaxation with Mary Jane. His unfiltered, unbothered way of life brought so much love and laughter (or opposite) to those close to him.
Ben's legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He is lovingly remembered by his siblings Kyle (Carolyn) Tuffley, Derek (Amanda) Tuffley, Danielle (Monica) Tuffley, Nikki (Scott) Shoda, Mark (Stephanie) Webster, Marinda Mullins, mother-in-law Becky Sparkman, numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins, as well as Grandma Paula and his beloved dogs Thorn and Luna.
Each of them carries with them a piece of Ben's spirit and the memories they created together. Benjamin Jesse Tuffley was a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many, and he will be profoundly missed, but fondly remembered (or not).
At a later date a memorial service will be held to honor Ben's life and the love he shared with all of us. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to fund supporting the children's future, please request this information via email at
[email protected]. Let us honor his memory by spreading kindness, love, and candor in our own lives, just as Ben did.
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Benjamin Jesse Tuffley, please visit our Tree Store.
Published by WFFT-TV 55 News on Oct. 1, 2025.