In Loving Memory of Carroll Milton Bush

May 27, 1944 – July 16, 2026

Carroll Milton Bush, an Army veteran, proud Howard University alumnus, and true Renaissance man, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026, at the age of 82.

Born on May 27, 1944, in Washington, D.C. to Emma Lurie and Roger Vivian Bush, Carroll was a man of vast curiosity and intellect.

Coming of age in the 1960s, he graduated from Luther Jackson High School in Falls Church, Virginia. Fairfax County's first and only segregated high school for African-American students during the 1950s and early 1960s. His pursuit of knowledge continued at the historic Howard University in Washington, D.C., an institution and a city that held a special place in his heart. Driven by a deep sense of duty, he subsequently left his studies to serve in the United States Army.

After service, upon returning home, Carroll found it hard to readjust to a life he once knew. He fell in to some of the darker times of his life. While in that place for many years, he one day decided he no longer wanted to stay in that dark place. That is when he came to the Emery House Work Bed Program. As a willing participant in his sobriety, Carroll was determined to reclaim his life and had a steadfast focus on returning to his family. He completed the 6 month program that helped him establish his return to work. While at Emery House, Carroll was very helpful with the startup of the Emery Alumni Group. He firmly believed that the men there shared common concerns and goals, and that their support of each other would benefit them tremendously. Carroll became the group Secretary, taking notes during meetings, and offering his input. He was an all around outstanding member of the program as demonstrated by the goals he achieved; family reunification, getting and remaining clean and sober, returning to the workforce at the V.A. Hospital (DC), regaining and maintaining his self respect.

Carroll attended Alcoholic Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous (AA/NA) meetings regularly at the Emery House, St. Martin of Tours, and the Metropolis Club, as well as events and meetings at the V.A. Hospital (DC). Through his determination, hard work, and steadfastness, Carroll achieved his goals and remained sober for the remainder of his life. Thank God for His blessings of mercy and grace upon Carroll who became an example to others of what recovery can be. He went on to live in Washington, D.C. for many years, deeply loving the energy, history, and culture of the city he called home.

He was genuinely worldly—someone who seemed to know a lot about a lot, engaging easily with anyone on almost any topic. His warmth, sharp mind, and depth of knowledge made a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Above all his knowledge and life experiences, Carroll loved his family dearly. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; his daughter, Leslie Meade (Rahmel); his beloved grandchildren, Anisa, Charles, Nimaya, and Domingo; his two great-grandchildren, Sol and Luna; and his sister Althea Jackson. He also leaves behind a host of loving cousins, nieces, a nephew, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider donating to the organizations near and dear to Carroll:

Coalition for the Homelesshttps://dccfh.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/

Saint Martin of Tours for their long time support of the Alcoholic Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous (AA/NA) fellowship

https://www.stmartinsdc.org/*Under MY DONATION select ONE-TIME or RECURRING; Under the FUND tab select DONATE TO ST. MARTIN'S OUTREACH