According to CBS News, Philadelphia is mourning the unexpected loss of Charisse McGill, the 42-year-old founder of Lokal Artisan Foods, known for the popular French Toast Bites. McGill passed away on Jan. 15, leaving a legacy of entrepreneurial success and community leadership. Her cause of death is unknown.
In a statement, McGill’s publicist, Kory Aversa, conveyed the family’s appreciation for the outpouring of love and support. He stated, “Charisse McGill holds a huge place in so many of our hearts, and she will be so deeply, deeply missed.”
In 2018, McGill left her position as the director of special events at Valley Forge Military Academy to launch French Toast Bites
at Philadelphia City Hall’s Christmas Village. The delectable treats quickly gained popularity, and McGill’s vibrant personality made her a fixture at various events and festivals.McGill’s entrepreneurial journey expanded with permanent seasonal stands at iconic locations like Spruce Street Harbor Park, Cherry Street Pier, Eastern State Penitentiary, and a year-round stand at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. By 2021, she had diversified her offerings with a branded spice mix, beer, and coffee.
Recognized for her contributions, McGill received awards from the 76ers Buy Black program, United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey, and the African American Chamber of Commerce of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. Her story was featured in local news outlets, Forbes
, and the Today Show.Last summer, McGill became the executive director of the Farmers Market Coalition, leveraging her extensive experience working with markets and food vendors. She had previously managed the Lansdale Farmers Market for seven seasons, overseeing its growth from 22 vendors to over 40.
Before venturing into artisan foods, McGill had a diverse career, working with organizations like the 76ers, the Atlantic 10 Conference, and Special Olympics Pennsylvania. She launched her event management company, Ardent Meeting & Event Management, in 2006 and earned an MBA in food marketing from St. Joseph’s University in 2021.
Beyond her entrepreneurial success, McGill was a teacher and mentor, holding positions as adjunct faculty, instructor, and lecturer at various educational institutions. She coached girls’ varsity basketball at Benjamin Franklin High School.
Known for her warm and welcoming demeanor, McGill had a significant impact as an employer, employing a dozen workers at five French Toast Bites locations. She supported her young workforce with fair wages, professional guidance, and open communication, fostering a positive work environment.
McGill’s daughter, Madison, 18, is one of her employees and has already displayed an entrepreneurial spirit. Madison played a pivotal role in McGill’s Today Show appearance, sharing the story of launching a successful lemonade stand at the Lansdale Farmers Market at the age of 12.
The legacy of Charisse McGill lives on through her daughter, Madison, who will continue to run Lokal Artisan Foods. Funeral arrangements and donation information will be announced on social media in the coming week. Philadelphia remembers McGill as a trailblazer, mentor, and community leader.
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