Crystal Carlson

Crystal Joy Carlson, passed away peacefully on May 30th 2023, at the age of 71 at her home on James Island, after a long courageous battle with cancer. She was born to naval officer John Carlson and Frances (Redmond) Carlson in Charleston October 24, 1951, at the home of her maternal grandmother, Hazel Redmond, on Queen Street. Her father was at sea during her arrival.

An adventurous "wild child" of the 1960's, Crystal left home for a roving life style the day she turned 18, settling down with the arrival of her son, Forrest, and a couple of years living in the Puerto Rican countryside. She returned to the Charleston area after that adventure and would spend the rest of her life here, except for short stints living in Costa Rica and Florida. Crystal had an inkling to be her own boss, an artistic eye and talented hands. She wove reed hats for tourists in Puerto Rico, became a certified masseuse, and yoga instructor and settled in on her career as a real estate professional. In that role she excelled, winning many awards for being a top performer. Crystal owned 50 properties in her lifetime.

Along the way she went back to school to secure her associate's degree. With a mercurial personality, Crystal was never satisfied to just sit around, she had to be doing something. That included taking care of her maternal grandmother for many years and raising a son. She was well travelled and be assured that, wherever she landed, her beautiful blue eyes, infectious laughter and kind heart will not be forgotten. Those qualities helped her earn super host status as an AirBnB host. Crystal was among the first in Charleston to open her home to travelers from around the world.

She is survived by her son, Forrest Nestor, and brothers, Matthew (Chelvi), David, and Courtney (Sue.)

Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside funeral at 10:00am on Thursday, June 1st, at the Bethany Cemetery located on Cunning Street.

 In lieu of flowers, it is requested that donations be made to no-kill pet shelters in the area. Visit our guestbook at legacy.com/obituaries/charleston