Widow of fallen Pinellas County deputy writes letter of gratitude to community for its love and support

TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. - The widow of Michael Magli, a Pinellas County deputy killed in the line of duty, has written a letter of gratitude to say thank you to the countless people supporting their family during the worst times of their lives.

She said Michael Magli was sarcastically funny. He loved golfing, watching the Lightning play and was a hero to her and their two young girls. His life was cut short in February in a split-second decision to save others. 

"To say it’s a tragedy is an understatement. There are no words that can make sense of it," said Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri in February.

Michael Magli was trying to deploy stop sticks to help apprehend a drunk driver. Instead, that man plowed into the 8-year veteran of the force. Michael Magli was the first deputy in Pinellas County to die in the line of duty.

"I just love him so much, and I wish it was different," Stephanie Magli said at Michael’s funeral.

Stephanie Magli has mostly stayed private in her grief, but on Thursday she released a 1.5-page letter through the sheriff’s office giving the public a glimpse into the family’s life, before his death. She wrote in part:

"He loved our girls so much, he was the best partner, and I keep trying to remind myself he's here with us," Stephanie said.

The heartfelt letter thanks the community for its continued love, support, prayers, kind words, cards and generosity. She also penned gratitude to the sheriff’s office and other local agencies for honoring her husband and making sure his legacy is never forgotten.

A widow grateful for compassion in her darkest days, writing: