Brandon Blake

Brandon Christopher Blake, a native of New Orleans, passed away peacefully in his home on December 4, 2023, at the age of 51. He was born in New Orleans Louisiana, on July 25, 1972, to the late Bonnie and Bertrand Blake, Sr. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Bertrand Eddie Blake, Jr., uncles Nathaniel Lawson, Alton Lawson, James Lawson, Talmadge Lawson, Lionel Pooler, and aunts, Marybell Chatman Hayes, and Cecile Lawson. Brandon was raised in Uptown New Orleans and graduated from Warren Easton High School. After high school he followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the U.S. Marines, where he proudly served as a combat engineer. He received the National Defense Service Medal and a Rifle Badge as a Marksman. When discharged, Brandon worked for Sutton Gallery in the French Quarter as a gallery attendant for several years, until he decided to become self-employed. He used old fashioned word of mouth to market his business of being the go-to-guy for DIY, and art projects, landscaping, and moves. Brandon loved being free, living his life on his own terms. He was a minimalist, who found value in relationships. He was humble and protective, always making space to lend a helping hand to others. A dutiful son and nephew, he played an active role in the caretaking of his elderly relatives. In other words, he understood that giving of self was a critical component of the life cycle. One of the most fulfilling acts of service for Brandon was at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, where he was christened at three years old. He took immense pride in the role as vice-president of the congregation and worked diligently behind the scenes in every aspect of the Church. His most recent position was program manager of the Community Table. Each week, 3 times a week, he worked with a team that prepared and served 600 meals to the community. He enjoyed being around genuine people and worked with many organizations, including Together New Orleans, The Kiwanis Club of the Big Easy, and the Jewish Federation. In his free time, Brandon enjoyed grilling, biking, playing dominoes, and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and family. He leaves to cherish his memory, his children, Brandi, Bertrand, Damon, Shokief, Leona, Kahlil, and Jarred, his grandchildren, aunt, Zonthia Thornton (Kevin), uncles, Linwood, Demetrius and Leonard Pooler, Cousin Deidre Hayes-Johnson (Calvin), and a host of other relatives and friends. We will miss his jokes, warm hugs, life lessons and laid-back demeanor. Services will be held at Bethlehem Lutheran Church at 1823 Washington Ave. New Orleans, LA 70113 on December 22, 2023, at 10am. Pastor Denise Graves, Officiating. Final Arrangements Entrusted to Rhodes Funeral Home 3933 Washington Avenue New Orleans La. 70125. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the online guestbook.