William Blake Barnes

William Blake Barnes passed away on August 27, 2026, at the age of 44. Born on March 24, 1982, Blake will be remembered with deep love by those who knew him and by the family and the wide circle of friends who shared in his life.

Blake attended Presbyterian Day School (K-6) and graduated from Memphis University School in 2000, where he played basketball for Coach Jerry Peters. His enjoyment in the sport started at a young age playing for church leagues and continued as an adult when he played casually with his friends. Blake went on to attend Southern Methodist University, where he was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. His career began in the sports-related field, working for Dover Motorsports and the Austin Wranglers before he transitioned into real estate appraisals. Over the years, he worked with Integra Realty Resources, Butler Burgher Group, Grubb and Ellis, and C.B. Richard Ellis.

More than anything, Blake had a strong love for his family and friends. Those who loved him will hold close the memories of family vacations and trips with friends that took them from the mountains to the beach, as well as treasured days spent at his grandparents’ house on the Tennessee River, where boating and waterskiing brought joy and togetherness. Blake also enjoyed playing golf and attending golf tournaments with friends. These moments remain a lasting part Blake’s life’s story.

Blake is survived by his father and mother, William Sanford “Bill” Barnes and Debra Blakemore Barnes of Somerville, Tennessee; his sisters, Sara Gamble (Stephen) of Memphis, Tennessee, and Allison Barnes of Nashville, Tennessee; his grandmother, Marie Warren Blakemore of Union City, Tennessee; his uncle, Robert George Blakemore of Union City, Tennessee; his uncle Ronnie Neill and aunt Carol Barnes Neill of Somerville, Tennessee; and his cousin, Seaton Neill and many other extended family members. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, George Edwin Blakemore, Billy Gene Barnes, and Peggy Seaton Barnes.

Blake’s life was marked by devotion to the people he loved, enjoyment of the time shared with family and friends, and a path that carried him from school and athletics into a successful professional career. He had a huge heart for animals and also leaves behind his beloved Australian Shepherd, Maddy, and his rescue cats, Kitty, Foxy and Zazzy. He will be remembered with affection, missed deeply, and carried always in the hearts of those who loved him. 

The family will plan a time to celebrate his life at a later date. Memorials may be made to Fayette County Animal Rescue (fayettefcar.com/donate), Memphis University School, and Christ Methodist Church.