Influencer Joshua Blackledge, aged 16, has tragically passed away. The local news source Carolina Coast Online reported his death on Tuesday, March 18 at his residence in Newport, North Carolina, though the cause of death remains undisclosed. Noe-Brooks Funeral Home honored the late influencer, a junior at West Carteret High School with 1.1 million TikTok followers, with a “celebration of life” on Sunday, March 23. Sorrowful tributes poured in from hundreds of Blackledge’s friends, fans, and followers on the obituary page and his recent social media posts.
Recognized for his varied content including lip-syncing videos, car features, and moments with loved ones like his girlfriend, Emmie Gillikin, Blackledge’s final TikTok was shared on March 14, showing him with friends beside a white truck. Many expressed disbelief at his sudden passing shortly after this post.
Gillikin, who was a significant part of his life as mentioned in his social media bios, has since shared heartfelt tributes to Blackledge on her accounts. On March 20, she posted a compilation of cherished moments from their relationship, expressing deep sorrow over his absence and remembering his impact on her life.
In a poignant TikTok from November 2024, Blackledge shared that he and Gillikin had met two years prior and were dating for five months at the time. The community mourns the loss of this young influencer whose vibrant presence touched the lives of many.
