Will Blakely Obituary, Death- William (Will) Lee Blakely, a beloved son, brother, and friend, passed away on Friday, November 10 at the tender age of 19. On December 3, 2003, Will entered this world in Huntsville, Alabama. He has always had a passion for learning, for animals, and for cooking. After completing his high school career at James Clemens in 1922, Will attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham on a Merit Scholarship to study nutrition. The pursuit of knowledge and his commitment to learning were central to his entire being.
Will was not just a star student, but also an accomplished chef who specialized in making vegan foods with Asian and Mexican flavors. He became a familiar face in the city’s various ethnic food markets, where he indulged his enthusiasm for cooking and curiosity about new flavors. Will’s zest for life and infectious enthusiasm were on full display when he talked his grandmother into trying a durian fruit from Thailand. Will’s passion for animals was one of his most distinguishing characteristics.
His early experience caring for chicks and quails was indicative of his eventual compassion for the animals he cared for when volunteering at the Athens-Limestone Animal Shelter. The family pets, Sweet Pea and Maisy had a special place in his heart and helped him through difficult times. Will’s parents, Jonathan and Christina, as well as his siblings, Luke, Emily, and Jesse, will miss him terribly. His extended family will always hold pleasant memories of their time spent with him in their hearts. Lee and Melanie Blakely and Rosalie Choate will always cherish the time they had with their grandson.
A memorial service for Will will be held at Most Merciful Jesus Catholic Parish on Tuesday, November 14 at noon. There will be a visitation commencing at 11 AM, so that loved ones can gather and support one another at this time of grief. Donations to the Athens-Limestone Animal Shelter are welcome in place of flowers, per the family’s request. This honours Will’s real care for animals and serves as a fitting tribute to a young man who lived his life loving, caring, and taking risks. Let us celebrate Will Blakely’s memory by sharing his enthusiasm for education, compassion for animals, and the excitement of trying new foods. His legacy can provide peace and inspiration to anyone who knew and loved him.
