William Blake Adams IV

Preceded in death by his parents William Blake Adams III and Margaret Kay (Bancroft) Adams, William is survived by his devoted partner, Tiffany; his son, William; his sister, Rebecca; his brother, Matthew; his uncle, Jerry Bruce Bancroft (Kathleen); his first cousin and lifelong friend, Jerry Bruce Bancroft, Jr., Lt Col, KY ANG (Marcy); second cousins Josh & Jacob Bancroft; and numerous loving friends and co-workers across Louisville. Diagnosed with metastatic brain cancer in June 2015, William fought with courage, dignity, and a bright sense of humor for as long as he could.

Born in Louisville on September 9, 1972, William graduated from Doss High School in 1990, and went on to pursue a degree in biology at the University of Louisville, transferring briefly to Indiana University before returning home. He worked as a pharmacist technician throughout much of his adult life, and for a short time as an emergency medical technician. William was known for excellence both academically and professionally. He worked hard and learned well.

A child of the 70s and 80s, William was deeply nostalgic, and became an avid collector of memorabilia from the period later in life. He pursued a variety of interests and hobbies, including pool, Tae Kwon Do, baseball, sketching, reading, science, history, video games, comics, music, and film.

Those who met him soon learned of his highly contagious enthusiasm; he maintained a level of energy and momentum that invariably spread. The oldest of three siblings, he was fiercely protective of his brother and sister, and reserved a deep sense of loyalty for those he loved. He cultivated numerous strong friendships throughout his life, and was especially well-liked in the workplace.

William’s battle with cancer began in 2003, and he would continue to struggle with it for the next twelve years. Ill-timed tumors caused countless setbacks, but he emerged from each with a renewed sense of vitality and resolve. The battles did not leave him broken; they filled him with independence, courage, resilience, and a quiet strength, which he held onto until the end.

He was a source of comfort, humor, and inspiration, and he will be profoundly missed.

Visitation will be held at Evergreen Funeral Home on Sunday, November 1, 2015 from 1-6 p.m., followed by funeral services on Monday at 12 p.m. Visitation will be after 10 a.m. until service time on Monday.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society in William's name.