Blake was assigned female at birth but like many of our brothers and sisters Blake knew he was different and simply wanted to live in his truth.
Born in Charleston, South Carolina and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina Blake was born to set fire to a cold world.
Blake was popular and spent two years as a drum major at East Mecklenburg High School. Blake decided to come out as transgender during his sophomore year. His peers supported him so much so that Blake became the first trans man to become Homecoming King at the school. This garnered national attention as not only was he the first trans man to become Homecoming King for East Meck High, he raised the most money ($2,555.55) and was the first trans man to hold the title in the state of North Carolina.
Although Blakes peers supported him, life at home wasn’t as easy. Blakes family did not approve of Blakes decision to transition making it very hard for Blake to truly feel loved and supported.
Blake made a conscious decision to move in with a foster family during his transition. This family uplifted Blake and even helped him maintain his goals during his journey into becoming himself. This helped Blake gain the confidence he needed to thrive.
After becoming the King he always knew he was Blake began advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. Blake led protests, he spoke out against violence against trans people and he became a voice for the unheard.
Blake aspired to be a band director and a music composer so he enrolled at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Blakes life was tragically cut short after years of depression and self-harm. March 25th 2015 the day he died he posted “I am so exhausted.”
Blake was on the outer loop of interstate 485 when he was struck by several vehicles. He was laid to rest by his family in South Carolina on March 28th.
Blake will forever be missed and remembered. Although Blake did not die of physical violence, he lived a much more tragic life than we knew. He had scars no one could see and they got the best of him.
It is important that we uplift one another and check on our brothers and sisters. When we see someone crying for help, be a shoulder for them to lean on. Imagine had someone stepped in before Blake decided to leave this world.
Rest in Paradise Blake
May 14, 1996 – March 23, 2015
If you or someone you know are struggling with their mental health please check out the links below for ways to help.
Call 988 for Suicide and Crisis Prevention or check out TranscendCharlotte
