Charles “Chilli” Essley Carroll

Charles Essley Carroll, affectionately known to many as “Chilli,” was born on July 11, 1942, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Carl Tolbert and Katherine Carroll. He was a proud product of Milwaukee. Charles was a man of deep faith, unshakable integrity, and endless generosity.

Charles received his formal education through the Milwaukee Public School System and graduated from North Division High School in 1960. Charles attended Milwaukee Area Technical College and Milwaukee College of Medicine. Charles furthered his education by attending the H&R Block Tax Preparer Academy. Education was not just a personal achievement for Charles, but a tool he used to uplift others and invest in the future of his community.

Charles accepted Christ at an early age. In 1967, he and his family joined Emmaus Lutheran Church, where he served faithfully as President of the Congregation, Chairman of the Board of Education, and in other roles as needed for years. Through his leadership and devotion to the church and school, he left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Charles became an active member of Hope Lutheran Church in 2014, continuing to serve God with commitment and grace throughout his life.

On January 18, 1963, Charles united in holy matrimony to the love of his life, Althea Lee Garner, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This union was blessed with five children and stood as a powerful example of faith, partnership, and devotion for six decades. Charles served as a Health Technician at the Clement J. Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, dedicating 46 years to the care of those who served our nation. Charles also worked for 20 years for Kohl’s Corporation. Regardless of his job title, Charles was always a man of excellence, compassion, and reliability.

Charles was a servant-leader, a fierce advocate for his community, and a legend among those who had the privilege to know him. He was deeply involved in organizations such as the Northcott Neighborhood House and Emmaus Lutheran School, where he played an instrumental role in mentoring youth. He was also a longtime supporter and contributor to Milwaukee’s Juneteenth celebrations and African World Festival, believing deeply in honoring heritage and building unity.

As a sports enthusiast, Charles enjoyed fishing, hunting, umpiring softball, and refereeing basketball games with the Wisconsin Association of Referees. Charles gave his time generously to help mold young people in sportsmanship, fair play, and resilience; whether on the field or in the stands, he used the game to teach life lessons. Charles was also well known for his passion for cooking; he believed his cooking was meant for celebration and healing, from holiday dinners to community events. He shared his gift for cooking with joy, often bringing dishes and cakes to encourage and motivate others.

Charles began cruising as a member of The Milwaukee Sixteen in the late 1980s. In recent years, he enjoyed spending time cruising with his family and friends. It was his way of reminding everyone to value love, laughter, and time well spent. Charles Essley Carroll departed this life on Monday, July 21, 2025, surrounded by his children. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Althea Lee Carroll; his parents, Carl Tolbert and Katherine Jordan; siblings Vaughn Carroll, Michael Carroll, James Carroll, Delbert Jordan, and Janell Jordan; Godfather Charles Gooden, and Godmother Angeline (Big Mama) Avery.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children: Sonja Carroll, Dana McClain (William)-Kelly, Sandra Carroll, Scheryl (Marlo) Carroll, and Scott Carroll, all of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Aunts Barbara Tolbert & Lucille Scott. Brothers: Broderick Jordan & Phillip (Anna) Jordan. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: LaTiesha Twitty, Janay(Jeff Pope) McClain-Kelly, J’Anna McClain-Kelly, Donovan Peavy, Malik (Drewcilla Green) Evans, and Miyah Evans. He is also survived by his greatgrandchildren: Torri’Anna (Gerbrena) Smith, Carter Evans, Chandler Evans, Aleivia-Kamille Peavy, and Oliver-Karmello Peavy; and one great-great-grandson, Torrian Carroll. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, extended family, friends, and community members join together in mourning his passing and celebrating his life.

Visitation will be held on Monday, August 4, 2025 at Hope Lutheran Church, 1115 North 35th Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from 10:00 AM until the time of Service at 12:00 PM. Procession to Graceland Cemetery.

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