Charles J. Hall IV

Charles John Hall IV, affectionately known as “Chucky Bilal,” “Coach Bilal” and “Sarge” transitioned peacefully at home with his wife and sister by his side on July 29, 2024 in Poinciana, Florida at the age of 65, after a brief but fiercely courageous battle with Pancreatic Cancer. Chucky was the eldest of five children, born on December 9, 1958, in Elizabeth, NJ, to Charles Lawrence Hall and the late MarthaAnn Washington-Karim. At the age of 9, he moved to East Orange, NJ, where he spent 50 years of his life before relocating to Florida in 2019 with his wife and daughter. A proud product of the East Orange school system, he attended Ashland and East Orange High Schools. East Orange was more than just a place to him; it was his home, a community he deeply loved and served with honor. It shaped his identity and fueled his dedication to improving the lives of those around him. In 1984 Chucky joined the National Guard and graduated receiving the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. From there he began his career in law enforcement. After graduating from the Police Academy in 1987, he joined the Irvington Police Department. In 1989, he transferred to the East Orange Police Department (EOPD), where he served with distinction, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his community. During his time at EOPD, Chucky held leadership roles in various departments and was actively involved with Black Cops Against Police Brutality (BCAP). He served as Vice President and Secretary of the Police Benevolent Association (PBA) and played a significant role in developing the Student Redirection Education Discipline and Development Program (SREDD), designed to support the behavioral and educational development of middle and high school students. Nearly two decades ago, he was tasked with the honorable duty of writing the mission statement for the EOPD, which continues to guide both rookies and veterans to this day. He retired as an esteemed lieutenant after 25 years of service. Among all his titles and roles, serving as Assistant Director and Coach for the Police Athletic League (PAL) held a special place in his heart, as football and coaching were the joys of his life. He coached boxing for 12 years and football for 16 years, earning the affectionate title "Coach Bilal" from his PAL students. For nearly two decades, he also coached the East Orange Jaguars, starting as the Special Teams Coach and eventually becoming the Assistant Head Coach. He briefly coached at Roselle and West Side High Schools and was a dedicated Alabama Crimson Tide fan, proudly displaying his crimson "A" wherever he went. Chucky’s love for all music and dancing knew no bounds, with a special fondness for house music, and that love for music was as strong as his commitment to education. He earned a BA in Public Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 2021. His spiritual journey was vast, encompassing an exploration of various religions, reflecting his theologian-like curiosity leading him to seminary school. He was also a committed FreeMason, served as the Governor of the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge in Perth Amboy, and excelled as a bowler with the Solivita League in Florida. "God, Family, Football"—this was the motto that guided Chucky through life. He had an unrelenting desire to be that difference, that person who wouldn’t allow money, power, prestige or position to sway them from doing the right thing. Doing the Godly thing was more than winning and he knew that there was a difference. He chose to walk a path of integrity, honor, good character, love, compassion,empathy and as a warrior who always defended the weak and oppressed and told the truth because truth matters. He was known for his insightful advice and honesty, always speaking the truth with a no-nonsense approach, whether it was what you wanted to hear or not. With a wild sense of humor, a larger-than-life personality, and a heart as big as his ambitions, Chucky had a unique way of making everyone he met feel like family. He was a man of faith and integrity; his life was a rich tapestry of service, leadership, advocacy, and passion, and his legacy will be remembered for the profound impact he made across his many pursuits. He leaves to cherish a multitude of memories with his loving wife, Celine Hall; his daughters Leah (Tomajj) Hall-Coleman, Mariyam (Jet) Hall, and Trinity Bass. He also leaves behind his sons Charles “Chaz” (Rosebeth) Lee and Charley (Judy) Hall, his sister Chrystal (Ademah) Muhammed, his brother Tekonblah Hall; and his father, Charles (Iney) Hall. Chucky is predeceased by his mother, MarthaAnn Washington-Karim, and his brothers Maurice Hall and Tyrone Hall. He was a proud and doting grandfather to Antonio Arroyo, Milani Lee, and Jett Lee, and treasured his role as Pop-Pop. He is also survived by bonus children Elisha Smith and Nadirah Wheeler, as well as bonus brothers Mark Allen, Robert “Bobby” Irvin, and Robert “Bo” Mallard, as well as his former spouse and dear childhood friend, Lydia Wheeler-Hall and sister-in-love Adrienne Wheeler. He held a special place in his heart for his mother-in-love, Amparo (Ignacio) Santiago, in addition to a host of nieces, nephews, godchildren, and countless family and friends. Although he is no longer with us, may his spirit and legacy endure through the many lives he touched, his devoted family, and his wide circle of friends. As he would sign off…TGBTG! (To God Be The Glory!)

Charles J. Hall IV

December 9, 1958 - July 29, 2024