Jared Michael Hobgood, 38, of 908 Windsor Lane, Key West, Fla., passed away on Thursday, Dec. 5, 2013. He is survived by his wife, Samantha Ursina Hobgood; his son, Jared Michael Hobgood II; his son's mother, Tanya McMillan of Orlando, Fla; his stepson, Hudson Thrasher; parents, Ronald and Jayne Hobgood of Tampa, Fla.; and brothers, John Hobgood of Medford, Mass.; and Judd Hobgood of Jacksonville, Fla.

Jared was born on March 22, 1975, in Evansville, Ind., and lived there until 1994, when his family moved to Tampa. He attended the University of Michigan for one year on a music scholarship before his family moved to Tampa. Jared transferred to the University of South Florida and graduated in 1997. He attended law school at the University of Florida.

Jared always loved music; and on a visit to Key West with his law school friends, he walked into Irish Kevin's bar on Duval Street. When the singer on stage needed a restroom break, Jared picked up his guitar and played a set. The owner offered him a job on the spot. He returned home, packed his bags, and began entertaining the crowds at Irish Kevin's.

He fell in love with Key West, its culture, and especially the people. Jared was an avid boater, spending most weekends on, in and under the water. He enjoyed boating, spearfishing, kite surfing; and especially evening paddleboarding with his wife, Samantha, and sons. Key West also fell in love with Jared. He was an honorary Special Forces member, an active member of the Masonic Lodge, and loved by residents of the Conch Republic.