New Jersey – It is with profound sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Ercole Chila, founder, pitmaster, and guiding force behind Uncle Pig’s Barbecue, who died suddenly in a car accident on July 17, 2025, in New Jersey. Known throughout the competitive barbecue circuit as a grill champion and master teacher, Ercole’s warmth and mentorship left an indelible mark on both local grilling communities and world‑class BBQ competitions .
Over a decorated career, Ercole led Uncle Pig’s BBQ team to multiple high‑profile victories—including the coveted Jack Daniel’s World Championship (“The Jack”) and several KCBS Grand Championships. In 2022 alone, his pit crew earned KCBS Team of the Year honors—a testament to his vision, skill, and devotion to excellence. His passion never wavered: he was known as a larger‑than‑life presence, a fierce competitor with humility and humor, who inspired backyard grillers, novice cooks, and seasoned pros alike.
Ercole’s expertise was captured in numerous interviews and podcasts. On the Tailgate Guys BBQ Podcast, he recounted the“We brought home a Jack Daniels World BBQ Invitational championship home to New Jersey”—a moment he described as electric and emotional . Listeners of BBQ Nation praised his thoughtful insights into technique, taste, and the art of honest judging. These appearances showcased not only a championship pitmaster, but a storyteller whose love of food and community shone through.
Beyond trophies and titles, Ercole was beloved in his South Jersey neighborhood for his open heart and generous spirit. Friends recall laughing with him at backyard cookouts, learning from his advice, and feeling the genuine kindness behind every big bear hug . As one neighbor shared after seeing him just days before his death, “I’ve known you for 26 years… You’ll never be forgotten. Sara Chila, I’m so sorry,” capturing the profound sense of loss rippling through the community .
Ercole is survived by his devoted wife, Sara Chila, their daughters, and an extended circle of family and friends who considered him family. Though plans for public memorials are in progress, many in the grilling world are already planning to honor his memory by passing along his recipes, techniques, and values of camaraderie and integrity.
As the pit fires dim in Uncle Pig’s BBQ pit, Ercole’s legacy blazes on—in every smoke‑ring, every lesson shared, and every new cook inspired to take grilling seriously. In his own words, he carried a flame for others to follow—now it’s our turn to keep it alive.
Rest in peace, Ercole Chila. You are forever part of the smoke and soul of this BBQ family.