Philadelphia, PA - With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Charisse McGill, the esteemed founder of French Toast Bites and Executive Director of Farmers Market Coalition. A beloved figure not only in Philadelphia but across America, Charisse has left an extraordinary legacy that will forever be remembered and celebrated.
At the remarkable age of 42, Charisse built an empire with her successful businesses, French Toast Bites and Lokal Artisan Foods. With her visionary mindset and fearless determination, she became a trailblazer in the local food industry. Before her ventures, Charisse served as the Market Manager of a suburban Philadelphia Farmers' Market, where she demonstrated her exceptional skills by transforming the market into the second largest in the Philadelphia region. This invaluable experience ultimately inspired her to embark on the journey of establishing Lokal Artisan Foods.
In 2018, Charisse accomplished yet another incredible feat by setting up her French Toast Bites stand in Philadelphia. In doing so, she became the first Black woman to own and operate a food establishment at Spruce Street Harbor Park and Cherry Street Pier on Penn's Landing. But her groundbreaking achievements did not stop there.
Charisse also made history as the first black woman in Pennsylvania to collaborate with Yard’s Brewing Company and create her very own signature craft beer, aptly named "French Toast Bites Ale." Additionally, her entrepreneurial spirit led her to create other exceptional products, including French Toast Bites Spice, French Toast Bites Coffee in partnership with Bean2Bean, and French Toast Bites Gelato in collaboration with Cloud Cups.
Charisse's unwavering passion for her business extended its reach to Philadelphia's most renowned tourist attractions. She forged partnerships with Christmas Village, Eastern State Penitentiary, Cherry Street Pier, Spruce Street Harbor Park, and the Pennsylvania Convention Center, making her a prominent force in the city's culinary scene. Her innovative and delicious creations brought joy to countless individuals and solidified her status as a true icon in the food industry.
Beyond her remarkable entrepreneurial accomplishments, Charisse McGill was a loving and dedicated mother, daughter, friend, mentor, and community leader. She touched the lives of many with her kindness and generosity, and her impact was recognized by numerous esteemed media outlets both locally and across the country.
Charisse is survived by her beloved daughter, Madison (Maddie) McGill, her devoted mother, Tina Jackson, her father, Maurice Davidson, and a large circle of extended family and friends who loved and cherished her. Although her absence will be deeply felt, Charisse's legacy will continue to inspire generations, ensuring that her indomitable spirit and remarkable achievements are perpetually celebrated.
