Michael Thomas Benoit

Michael Thomas Benoit, 70, of Mechanicsville, VA, passed away peacefully at home on July 23, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. After an eight-year battle with a chronic lung condition, he fought valiantly, surpassing the expected prognosis by nearly five years.

Born on October 10, 1953, in Albany, NY, Michael, affectionately known to many as "PM" or Pastor Mike, was the beloved son of Joseph and Mary Benoit. He graduated from Vincentian Institute and attended Sage College of Albany for a year before meeting his future wife, Lois, in 1971. The couple married in 1975 and were blessed with three children: Alisha, Callie, and Nathan.

A passionate musician from an early age, Mike bought his first guitar in 1965 at the age of 12. His remarkable vocal range and guitar skills led him to be a key member of several local and regional bands during the 70s and 80s. His most notable role was with the country rock band Adirondack, where he played at prestigious venues such as SPAC and the Palace, opening for renowned artists like England Dan, John Ford Coley, and Joe Cocker. Mike's performances, characterized by his powerful voice and heartfelt delivery, were always fan favorites, and his love for music never waned.

Pastor Mike's love for music was deeply intertwined with his passion for people and faith. As a dedicated man of God, he used his music to connect with and minister to others. He had such a heart for God and seeking the Truth. Early on, he could often be found with a pocket Bible at hand, sitting at a bar reading between sets. Later, he would listen to the Bible on tape while woodworking in his shop or driving. In his later years, he cherished listening to his favorite spiritual mentors' podcasts. Though he never attended seminary, his deep knowledge of scripture and his ability to quote it with conviction made him a revered spiritual guide.

For over 36 years, Mike served as a pastor at Cornerstone Fellowship in Hoosick Falls, NY. His commitment extended beyond the church as he engaged in various community roles, including serving on numerous committees, like HACA, being a chaplain at the hospital for over 30 years, volunteering with the Red Cross, and earning the honor of being a North Hoosick Firefighter. His unwavering dedication to serving others and spreading love and truth left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

PM's life, though marked by its share of challenges, was one of profound meaning and service. He shared his personal reflections and spiritual insights with anyone willing to listen, the Bible according to Mike, leaving behind a legacy of faith and kindness. His guitar playing, a blend of smooth virtuosity and powerful emotion, touched many, and his singing, described as anointed and penetrating, moved souls deeply.

Mike is preceded in death by his son, Marc; his father, Joseph Benoit; his mother, Mary Ravida Benoit; and his brother, Joseph Benoit. He is survived by his wife, Lois; his children, Alisha, Callie, and Nathan; his grandchildren Max and Lily; and a host of extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.

A celebration of Pastor Mike's life will be held in Virginia on August 3, 2024, at 1:00 PM at New Song United Methodist Church in Mechanicsville, and in New York on August 17, 2024, at 1:00 PM at Cornerstone Fellowship in Hoosick Falls. Receptions will follow both services. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Fix Ministry,  an organization PM volunteered with regularly, Cornerstone Fellowship,  his forever ‘home’ church, and New Song Church,  his Virginia church community who embraced him with open arms.

The Fix Ministry donation link: https://thefixministry.org/checkout/donate?donatePageId=6491f57addb2407e66c5d03f

Cornerstone Fellowship donation link: https://cornerstone22.com/donate/

New Song Church donation link: https://www.newsongumc.org/give.html

PM is now rejoicing in the presence of his Savior, jamming with the best rock band there is. His absence leaves a profound void, but his legacy of love, faith, and music will continue to inspire and comfort all who know him. Well done, good and faithful servant. Rest in peace, free from pain and suffering.

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