Ercole Chila Obituary – Remembering a Beloved BBQ Champion and Pillar of the Paulsboro Community
Paulsboro, NJ — With heavy hearts, the Paulsboro community and barbecue lovers across the region are mourning the devastating loss of Ercole Chila, a passionate advocate for community, tradition, and the culinary arts, who tragically passed away following a car accident. A cherished figure and driving force behind the New Jersey State Barbecue Championship, Ercole’s sudden passing has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of all who knew and loved him.
Born and raised in Paulsboro, Ercole was known not just for his involvement in local events but for the warmth, dedication, and sincerity he brought into every aspect of his life. He was more than a fixture in the BBQ world—he was its heart and soul. Year after year, Ercole helped transform the New Jersey State Barbecue Championship into a premier event that brought joy, connection, and culinary excellence to the South Jersey area.
Whether it was helping new vendors get settled, encouraging teams with his trademark positivity, or ensuring every detail of the event ran smoothly, Ercole led with humility and passion. His love for the barbecue world wasn’t just about food—it was about people, memories, and celebrating life’s simple pleasures. Friends and colleagues remember him as the kind of man who could light up a festival with his presence and make every person feel seen and valued.
News of his untimely death has reverberated far beyond Paulsboro, with fellow BBQ enthusiasts, community leaders, and event organizers from across the East Coast sharing tributes to a man whose generosity and dedication left a lasting impression. “He was the kind of person who made you feel like family,” one longtime friend and competitor shared. “His loss is not only a personal tragedy but a blow to the entire BBQ community.”
Ercole’s contributions extended well beyond the championship grounds. He was deeply committed to his hometown, participating in countless local events, fundraisers, and civic initiatives. His unshakable belief in the power of community inspired others to give back, to take pride in their town, and to create spaces where people could come together in celebration and support.
The circumstances surrounding the car accident that took his life are still being investigated, and the shock of such a sudden loss is palpable. His family and close friends are heartbroken, but comforted by the outpouring of love and respect from all corners of the community. As they mourn, they are surrounded by stories of how Ercole brought people together, fed their spirits, and created lasting memories for thousands.
Plans are underway for a public memorial service, and the organizing committee for the New Jersey State Barbecue Championship has announced that this year’s event will be held in Ercole’s memory, with special tributes planned to honor his legacy. There is also discussion of establishing a scholarship or permanent commemorative award in his name—one that recognizes individuals who embody the same community spirit, hospitality, and passion that Ercole brought to everything he did.
In the words of one tribute, “Ercole Chila was the smoke behind the flame, the heart behind the heat.” He gave tirelessly to the things he loved, and his impact will live on in every plate served, every cheer at a contest, and every gathering of neighbors and friends inspired by the traditions he helped build.
Rest in peace, Ercole. Your legacy is as enduring as the smoke rings in a perfectly slow-cooked brisket—and your spirit will forever be a part of the community you loved so deeply.