In Loving Memory of Carl Hilton “Caffeine Carl” Wagoner Sr. July 12, 1966 – July 9, 2026 With broken hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Carl Hilton “Caffeine Carl” Wagoner Sr., who passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family after a courageous battle with cancer. He was just three days shy of his 60th birthday. Born on July 12, 1966, in Key West, Florida, Carl was a proud, lifelong Key West Conch. There was never a place he would rather call home. Key West wasn’t simply where he lived—it was part of who he was. He loved its people, its history, its waters, and its music, and in return, the island embraced him as one of its own. Carl was born to Eloise Curry Wagoner and Bo Wagoner, whose love and guidance helped shape the man so many came to know and love. Music was woven into Carl’s soul. Beginning at just 18 years old, he performed throughout the bars and venues along Duval Street, entertaining generations of locals and visitors alike. Although he never learned to read music, Carl possessed an extraordinary gift. Completely self-taught, he played entirely by ear, proving that true talent comes from the heart. His final and most beloved band, Caffeine Carl and the Buzz, became a Key West favorite. His nickname, “Caffeine Carl,” perfectly described the energy, enthusiasm, and joy he brought to every performance. Despite living with a lifelong speech impairment, Carl never allowed it to define him. His guitar became his voice, and through his music he spoke to thousands of people over the years. While music was his passion, his family was his greatest love. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 20 years and the love of his life, Erin. Together they shared nearly 30 years filled with laughter, friendship, adventure, and a love that carried them through every season of life. Carl was an incredibly proud father to Carl Hilton Wagoner Jr. (“CJ”) and Corey Benjamin Wagoner, and an adoring grandfather to his beloved grandson, Kieran Wagoner, who brought him endless pride and joy. He is also lovingly survived by his sister, Pam Williams; his brother, David Wagoner, and sister-in-law, Lisa Wagoner; his mother-in-law, Cheryl Smith; his father-in-law, Bob Odom; his stepmother-in-law, Susan Odom; along with countless nieces, nephews, extended family members, lifelong friends, fellow musicians, and a community that loved him dearly. Carl refused to let cancer define him. Throughout his journey, he met every obstacle with remarkable courage, determination, humor, and his trademark stubbornness. Even on his hardest days, he continued to smile, crack jokes, and think about everyone else before himself. He fought with everything he had until the very end, inspiring everyone privileged enough to witness his strength. To know Carl was to love him. Whether you knew him from a stage on Duval Street, shared a drink or a laugh with him, worked beside him, or simply crossed paths with him, chances are you walked away smiling. He had a gift for making strangers feel like lifelong friends, and his kindness, generosity, and unforgettable spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met. The Wagoner family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the countless people who stood beside them throughout Carl’s journey. Every prayer, message, meal, visit, donation, hug, and act of kindness carried them through the most difficult days of their lives. The love shown by this community will never be forgotten. Although our hearts are broken beyond words, we find peace in knowing Carl is finally free from pain. His music may have fallen silent, but the memories he created, the friendships he built, and the love he gave will continue to echo throughout Key West for generations to come. A Funeral Mass celebrating Carl’s life will be held on Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. at The Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea in Key West, followed by a Celebration of Life at the Key West Theater on Eaton Street. Family, friends, fellow musicians, and everyone whose life was touched by Carl are invited to join us as we celebrate a life that was lived with passion, generosity, humor, and love. Carl’s story will never truly end. Every song played on Duval Street, every sunset over Key West, every laugh shared among friends, and every memory told with a smile will keep his spirit alive. Forever our Caffeine Carl. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Key West Civic Association Attn: Caffeine Carl 1007 Truman Ave. Key West, FL 33040