Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Michelle Mitchell Benjamin (1949-2024): A Champion of Family, Justice, and Community.
We celebrate the life of Michelle Mitchell Benjamin, a beloved spouse, parent, sibling, attorney, and community advocate. Born on December 10, 1949, in Rural Hall, North Carolina, to Constance and Eldridge Mitchell, Michelle passed away peacefully in Sewanee, Tennessee, on November 11, 2024, surrounded by family. Her life was marked by compassion, resilience, joy, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
Growing up as one of eleven siblings in a vibrant and loving family, Michelle embraced the values of love, faith, and community. She completed her undergraduate studies at Winston-Salem State University and earned her law degree at North Carolina Central University, where she met her husband, Eric Benjamin. Before beginning her legal career, Michelle taught kindergarten in the Virgin Islands, an early reflection of her dedication to education and service.
Michelle’s legal career began as a staff attorney with the Legal Services Corporation (LSC) in Tullahoma, Tennessee. The LSC, a publicly funded nonprofit established by Congress in 1974, aims to ensure equal access to justice for all Americans by supporting civil legal aid for those who cannot afford it. Michelle later established her private practice in Winchester, Tennessee, where she became a trusted advocate for clients in need. Her work demonstrated her commitment to justice and unwavering support for those without other recourse.
Michelle’s career was defined by dedicated service and leadership. In 1993, she joined the board of the Tennessee Trial Lawyers Association, a role she held for many years. She also served as a trustee for LIFT (Lawyers Involved for Tennessee), on the Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility for two terms, and on the Judicial Selection Commission for 15 years. Her colleagues respected her deeply for her fairness and integrity as a proud member of the Franklin County Bar Association.
In 2020, Michelle was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Tennessee Trial Lawyers Association, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the field of law. Known for her kindness and dedication, she celebrated each victory as a testament to her clients’ strength and resilience.
Together with her husband, Eric, who served as Director of Multicultural Affairs at the University of the South, Michelle raised three sons—Vincent, Keenan, and Michael. Her family was her source of pride and joy. She found fulfillment in watching her grandchildren—Ava, Chloe, and Ella—grow and cherished every opportunity to celebrate life’s precious moments with them. Known for her warmth, humility, and steadfast dedication, Michelle made a lasting impact on all who knew her.
Michelle was preceded in death by her husband, Eric Benjamin; her sister, Mona Mintz; and her brothers, Henry Mitchell and Derrick Mitchell. She is survived by her sons Vincent (Heather), Keenan (Nastasia), and Michael; her grandchildren Ava, Chloe, and Ella; her siblings Malcolm Marshall (Vivian), Eldridge Mitchell, Tony Mitchell (Sheila), Letitia Simmons, Brian Mitchell (Barbara), Brent Mitchell, and Karyn Torrence (Henri); and many friends, colleagues, and loved ones who will miss her deeply.
Michelle’s family invites friends and community members to celebrate her life and honor her legacy. Her dedication to justice, compassion, and love will continue to inspire all who knew her. Michelle’s belief in celebrating life will be cherished by her family and all who loved her. Her legacy lives on through her family, her work, and the many lives she touched.
Funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 10 am Saturday, at All Saints Chapel in Sewanee with interment following at University Cemetery with family and friends serving as pallbearers.
Moore-Cortner Funeral Home 300 1st Ave NW, Winchester, TN 37398, (931)967-2222
