Carlton Jermaine Burrows Jr. was born on October 9, 1997, in Rochester, New York, to Nicole Jackson and Carlton Jermaine Burrows Sr. From the very beginning, Carlton carried a bright and unforgettable spirit. He had a contagious smile, a warm heart, and a natural ability to light up every room he entered. If you knew Carlton, you knew his energy, you felt it. He had a way of making people laugh, even when they didn’t feel like it.
Carlton was a kind-hearted, pure soul and an old soul in many ways. He was caring, deeply loyal, and selfless to a fault. He would help anyone without hesitation, often giving whatever he had, even when it meant going without himself. He was fearless, loved to cook, always smiling, goofy and playful, yet grounded in love and respect. His heart was genuine and that is how he will always be remembered.
He was deeply loved by his mother, Nicole, a love that was unwavering, covering him in grace, strength, and prayer throughout his life. It was a bond rooted beyond words, one that remained with him, carried in his spirit and woven into who he was. That love never left him, and it never will.
He also shared a profound and unbreakable bond with his sister, Maniyah, who held a sacred place in his heart. He loved her deeply with loyalty, and a quiet devotion that will continue to live on. That connection does not end here; it lives on in memory, in love, and in spirit.
Most recently, Carlton worked at the University of Rochester, a role he took pride in. He was determined to grow, to build something for himself, and to make those he loved proud. He often spoke about wanting more not just for himself, but for his family and he carried that motivation with him every day.
One of the most special relationships in Carlton’s life was his close friendship with Brandon, a bond that began in elementary school and stood the test of time. Through every stage of life, Brandon remained by his side. Their friendship was more like brotherhood, loyal, unshakable, and real. They stood by each other through everything, and that kind of connection is rare and deeply meaningful.
Affectionately known as “Mr. Miyagi” on his mother’s side and “Pooka” on his father’s side, Carlton carried names that reflected love, personality, and deep family ties. The name “Mr. Miyagi” came from his resemblance to a beloved family member, Uncle Freddie, and it stuck not just because of the look, but because of the quiet strength.
Carlton attended Wilson High School, where his love for basketball really began to grow. He later earned his GED, showing determination and resilience. He also attended Monroe Community College. As a young man, he spent time at the Boys and Girls Club, playing basketball, building friendships, and creating memories that would last forever.
Basketball was one of Carlton’s greatest passions. Whether he was playing, watching, or talking about the game, it brought him joy. He was a proud fan of the Cleveland Cavaliers, and he stood by his team no matter what wins, losses, or heated debates included. He also loved music and enjoyed rapping.
One of the most meaningful relationships in Carlton’s life was with his grandfather Trenton Jackson Sr. As a young boy, he spent countless hours by his side going to sporting events, learning lessons, and building a bond that was truly unbreakable. He was his grandfather’s right-hand man, always close, always present. Even after his grandfather passed, that influence stayed with him and helped shape the man he became.
Carlton also shared a deep and special bond with his grandmother, Pamela Jackson, lovingly known as “Nana.” He cherished her, respected her, and loved her deeply. She was a source of comfort, guidance, and unconditional love in his life. Their connection was strong, filled with mutual love and understanding. He also loved his grandmother, Rosa Graham, deeply and carried a strong desire to make her proud something he held close to his heart.
Above all, Carlton’s greatest pride and deepest love was for his daughter, Princess Majesty. She was his world, his reason, his motivation his heart outside of himself. The love he had for her was pure and undeniable. When he spoke about her, there was a different kind of light in him. He wanted to give her everything, to protect her, and to make sure she knew how much she was loved. His legacy will live on through Majesty in her strength, her spirit, and the love he poured into her.
Carlton truly loved his family. He valued time together, laughter, and connection. Whether it was joking around, having meaningful conversations, enjoying fashion especially sneakers, cooking, or simply being present, he made every moment meaningful. And if you were around him long enough, you probably left with a laugh, because Carlton didn’t just bring joy he made sure you felt it.
Carlton leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved daughter, Princess Majesty Burrows; his mother, Nicole Jackson; his father, Carlton Jermaine Burrows Sr.; his sisters, Maniyah Reed, Johncia (Tim Green), Monasia Burrows, and Carma Burrows; his brothers, Akai Brown and Jeremiah Burrows; his maternal grandparents, Trenton Jackson Sr. (predeceased) and Pamela Jackson; his paternal grandparents, Carl McGriff (predeceased) and Rosa Graham.
He is also survived by his aunts and uncles, including Yolanda (Christopher Small), Heidi Jackson, Trenton Jr. (NaTasha Jackson), Leslie (Lisa Ross), and Shamika (Deverin Dillon); his lifelong friend Brandon Lewis; and a host of nieces and nephews, cousins, extended family members and dear friends who loved him deeply.
A service will take place Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 11AM, prior visitation from 10AM-11AM at Christ New Hope Ministry 155 Pinnacle Rd. Rochester, NY 14623.
Leave a Comment