Smiling Through It All: The Joyful Legacy of Dr. Michael McIlwain

If there’s one word to describe Dr. Michael Fulghum McIlwain, it’s extraordinary. As a beloved pediatric dentist, husband, father, coach and friend, Mike lived with a joy and generosity that touched everyone he met.

Even in the face of a devastating diagnosis, he never stopped showing up, for his family, his patients, his colleagues and his community.

He fought neuroendocrine carcinoma with quiet courage and an unwavering smile, never letting his illness dim the light he brought into the world. In the office, on the soccer field, or at home with his wife Cristina and their three incredible children, Mike led by example with kindness, humility and heart.

1. A Light in the Profession

“Dr. Mike,” as he was lovingly known by his patients and team, was born and raised in Tampa and was a proud graduate of Berkeley Prep. He was the cornerstone of McIlwain Dental Specialists and has served the Tampa Bay Area for over two decades as a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist. He was a steady presence whose warmth and expertise defined the heart of the practice.

He dedicated his life to caring for children and families with gentleness, skill and a signature smile that could put even the most nervous patient at ease. Mike truly loved what he did. Dentistry wasn’t work for him; it was a calling. He brought a sense of fun and lightness to the office every day, creating a joyful environment for both patients and staff whom who loved so much.

His generosity extended far beyond the walls of his practice. Mike volunteered for years with the craniofacial team at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, where his patients became part of his extended dental family.

He was an expert in treating medically complex cases and often provided pro bono care, believing fiercely that no child should be denied treatment because of financial hardship.

That unwavering commitment to his patients, regardless of circumstance, defined his legacy in the profession he loved so deeply.

2. Family First, Always

More than anything in the world, Dr. Mike McIlwain loved being a husband and a father. He and his wife Cristina shared a deep, devoted love, a true partnership filled with laughter, respect and unwavering support. Together, they raised three incredible children: Ella, Grayson and Lucy, each of whom carries a piece of Mike’s spirit.

In the past six months, Mike had the joy of working side by side with his son Grayson in the dental office. Grayson, inspired by his dad in every way, plans to follow in his footsteps and become a pediatric dentist. He soaked up every moment like a sponge, watching, learning, asking questions — eager to understand not just the technical skill of dentistry, but the heart behind it.

Mike was so proud to see Grayson’s passion unfold right before his eyes.

Ella, too, is following the path her father set. She dreams of becoming a dentist and specializing in orthodontics, blending precision with care just as Mike did so effortlessly.

His youngest daughter Lucy, his “Gooey,” lit up his world with her humor and hugs, and her mischievous charm reminded everyone of Mike’s playful side. Through his children, Mike’s legacy continues with purpose, promise and love.

3. The Beautiful Game

Soccer was more than a sport to Mike, it was a way of life. He played competitively through college at the University of Maryland and never lost his love for the game, often setting up pick-up matches at Cinco Soccer with the same passion he brought to every part of life.

He served as a coach for Tampa Bay United for 12 years and led his teams with positivity, encouragement and quiet strength.

He believed in building confidence, not just skills, and his players looked up to him both on and off the field. Through soccer, Mike taught kids how to love the game and believe in themselves.

He was recently honored by the University of Maryland with the team’s annual “Coaches Award” for his instrumental role in contributing to the early success of the soccer program. In every task, he demonstrated unmatched professionalism and was a true teammate who lifted everyone around him. This recognition is a perfect reflection of who he was on the soccer field and personally.

4. Living with Purpose

Mike McIlwain lived every day like it was a gift. Whether he was fishing, coaching soccer in the Florida heat, playing a quick round of golf or simply relaxing in flip-flops with close friends and family, Mike poured his energy into the moments that mattered most.

He didn’t just fill his days, he filled them with intention, joy and the people he loved most. Even during his yearlong battle with cancer, he showed up fully, at work, at home and in his friendships, often saying that this past year was “the best year of his life.”

5. Faith and Strength

In the final year of his life, Mike made a deeply personal and powerful decision. He was baptized at Christ the King Catholic Church on Easter Sunday. Surrounded by his family and loved ones, he embraced his faith with quiet conviction and humility.

For those who knew him, it felt like a natural extension of how he already lived: with compassion, grace and a heart full of love. His spiritual journey was one of peace and purpose, a reminder that it’s never too late to lean into hope, light and something greater than ourselves.

6. The Friend We All Wish For

Mike had a quiet gift for making people feel seen, valued and cared for. He was the kind of friend who showed up without being asked, who listened more than he spoke and who always left others feeling better than he found them. His kindness, humor and unwavering loyalty made life sweeter for everyone who knew him.

That mindset, grateful, resilient and full of light, is what Mike leaves behind for all of us. To honor his legacy, take his example and apply it to your own life. Be present. Be kind. Say yes when someone needs you. And even when life doesn’t go as planned, choose to live it all in just like Mike did.

To honor Mike’s legacy of service and compassion, please consider making a donation to the Mike McIlwain Cleft and Craniofacial Fun Day at flcleft.com.

As we embark on the Halloween season, check out our interview with the late Dr. McIlwain last October.