Charles Braley Carroll

Born in Savannah, Georgia, on December 19, 1951, to Charles Liddon Carroll and Elizabeth Norton Braley, young Braley spent his formative years in Panama City, Florida. Bay High School launched him toward the University of West Florida, where the Delta Tau Delta brotherhood forged bonds that would endure for decades.

Shortly after graduation, he moved to Jacksonville, Florida and began a lifelong career in public service. For over three decades, Chief Petty Officer Carroll answered the sea's call through Coast Guard Reserve service.

With his first wife, Debbie, Braley made Jacksonville his home, a basecamp for expeditions across Florida's untamed wilderness. A man who deeply cherished the bonds of family, Braley relocated his aging parents to his new town to ensure they were well cared for and were able to truly experience the joy of being grandparents.

When children arrived, Braley transformed into the ultimate expedition leader, dragging his young explorers across the state to reveal hidden gems that stretched across Florida's diverse landscapes—from the Everglades' mysterious waterways to the rolling hills of North Florida.

Perhaps his most sacred work began in AA, where he became a steady presence for souls struggling through their darkest hours. Always available to those he mentored, Braley led the recovery journey by example.

He cherished the time spent traveling with his beloved late wife, Delene Loughran, creating lasting memories. In his later years, he found joy in spending time with his grandchildren and practicing his marksmanship.

Braley is survived by his children, Ben (Mikey) Carroll and Elizabeth (Chris) Chan; stepson, Thomas Grove; grandchildren, Grady, Gunnar, and Charlie; siblings, Nancy (Edward) Gawlik, Demarias (Arthur) Brown, and Jesse (Barbara) Carroll. As well as several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by many dear friends including Wayne and Sheila Estes, Bill and Lucy Lewis, Michael and Moki Trusler, the Szaltis (Ray, Jennie, JP and Nick) Family, the Dubuque Family, Dr. Sherrie Richards, The Chan Family, and his first wife, Debbie. He was preceded in death by his wife, Delene Loughran, and his parents, Charles Liddon Carroll and Elizabeth Norton Braley, his favorite uncle Orly “Buster” Braley, cousins Rance and Chad Braley and dear friends Bob Barenfied, Henry Simmons and Frank Johnson.

A graveside service will be held at Jacksonville National Cemetery on October 3, 2025 at 10am. Followed by a celebration of life held at Oaklawn Chapel, located at 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207, at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Community Hospice.