Condolences

• 

  July 08, 2025

  Mike Capaldi

  I didn't know Xander, but I heard so many great things about him and the joy that he brought to his family will never be forgotten. Sending my condolences and love to the Barnes family and I hope that you can find strength in these difficult times.

• 

  July 04, 2025

  Teresa Songster

  We lost a sweet soul way too early. Xander was part of our family here in Florida, Walt Disney World specifically Liberty Tree Tavern. He was the lantern that shined bright here at Liberty Tree. Xander always had a smile on his face and always asked how your day was going. I and so many people are going to miss Xander. My heart and condolences to the friends and family that were part of Xander's life. May he Rest In Peace. Teresa Songster, Florida

• 

  July 04, 2025

  Mya

  Xander- I've been trying to find the words to express how it feels knowing you're gone. It's like the lights in the Tavern got a little dimmer, and that melancholy music grew a bit louder. I stand outside and I still see you out there, twenty feet in front of me, posted up with your sunglasses and a menu like you're part of the secret service. I see you behind the podium after close, slurping on whatever drink you decided to grab from the kitchen, telling all of us what a wonderful but crazy day it was. I hear you in the breakroom, sitting down (and almost falling over) and trying to fit those long legs under the table, and then telling us the most outrageous stories. To say that you will simply be missed is an understatement. Everyone here is grieving your loss, and we're going about our days a little differently. But we're keeping our heads held high and continuing on, dancing to the parades, skipping around the dining rooms, and always tripping on those darn stairs to the 500s. Your light will keep on shining at the Tavern because all of us will carry on your legacy of kindness, happiness, and pure chaos. My deepest sorrows and sympathies go out to all of the Barnes family for their loss. Please know that there's a whole group of people in Florida who are here to support you. Love you, Xander

• 

  July 04, 2025

  Bond

  Life has its special moments that leave a lasting imprint on your heart, and I am truly thankful for the time we shared during my Disney College Program. The happiness of our experiences together will always stay with me, and even though you left us too early, your memory will continue to shine in the hearts of everyone who was lucky enough to know you. One memory I'll cherish is watching the fireworks after a long day of work. The day may have been tiring, but sharing that moment of awe and wonder, seeing the fireworks light up the sky, felt like a perfect reflection of your bright spirit. You were always there, uplifting everyone with your presence. I truly appreciate the friendship we built, the joy we experienced together, and the countless small moments that, in hindsight, hold so much greater significance. Your generosity and the way you consistently made everyone feel at home will always be remembered. Thank you, Xander, for being a beacon of light for everyone around you. I will miss you and cherish these memories forever. Sending my deepest condolences to the Barnes family and all of Xander's loved ones.

• 

  July 02, 2025

  Katie

  It took a LOT of convincing, but we went on your first rollercoaster together - The Barnstormer Starring The Great Goofini. Oh Xander, my fellow Disney Dad, thank you for being my big brother. The highs, the lows, the whats and whoahs of Disney, we went through them together. My mom and I still quote the time when you got into my car with a huge smile on your face, buckled up, and enthusiastically announced you were 'ready for the safest ride of your life'. And I will never forget when you and Garret went to Alabama together and came back with a Slytherin pillow and plushie for me along with that rose you bought from that homeless person. We have so many memories and I will forever treasure our friendship <3

• 

  July 02, 2025

  Gracie

  Xander and I crossed paths a few times over the years and he was always the loveliest person to talk to. Sending my deepest condolences to all who had the privilege to know and love him; this loss is unimaginable.

• 

  July 02, 2025

  Hannah

  I am forever grateful for all the happy memories I have working at The Liberty Tree with Xander for six months, and I thank him for bringing magic to my college program. Sending love and condolences to the Barnes family and friends. His warm, bright light will always shine on.

• 

  July 01, 2025

  Kim

  I am at a loss for words. Xander was such a beautiful soul and a kind friend. He was my man of honor and made our day so so special. Making us laugh before going in, decorating a cake for us and decorating the apartment. I will always miss you. Thank you for everything you have done for us I will never forget it. Thank for all the laughs, gossips and late nights, thank you for all of the memories. I can't wait to see you again in another life, fly high little guy ❤️ I want to send all of condolences to Xander's family and everyone who knew what a beautiful person he was. He will be deeply missed.

• 

  July 01, 2025

  Mr. Nick Andretta

  I'm so sorry for your loss. The World lost a precious person. Xander was such an Angle! I spoke with Xander a couple of times. He was the greatest friend and supporter to my daughter. He was always there helping and keeping her in line. I am very blessed to have had him in Nicole's life. Good bless you Xander and I hope you still continue to be her Angel.

• July 01, 2025

  Allison Moreau

  Xander and I went to high school together and were in the same theater program. He was always making us laugh and amazing us with his talent! Sending my deepest condolences and comforting thoughts to the Barnes family and all of Xander's loved ones.

• 

  July 01, 2025

  Nicole Andretta

  Xander was truly the best friend I have ever had. He lit up the room whenever he walked in and he always put a smile on everyone's face. He was the best friend to many, and everyone who knew him, knew they could count on him. Xander always knew how to make everyone laugh, and that will always be my favorite part about him. I had no idea he would make such an amazing impact on me, but I'm so glad he did. Xander you are so loved, we will all miss you forever. Sending love to Xander's family and loved ones. We will always remember you.

• 

  July 01, 2025

  April Leon

  My condolences to the Barnes Family. I was Xander's School Counselor at West Millbrook. He was a sweet young man who was true to he is. He was kind to his peers, respectful to adults, and a great student overall. I know his presence will be missed amongst his family, friends and all other's lives he touched. Rest in Peace Xander. I know you will be dancing in Heaven and making everyone laugh.

• 

  June 30, 2025

  Amanda Maxwell

  I taught Xander for dance at West Millbrook and he was truly an unforgettable student to have had in class. He was always so positive and goofy and I am truly heartbroken to hear of his passing ❤️

• 

  June 30, 2025

  Big Ed's North Restaurant

  The owners and staff are broken hearted and still in disbelief of your passing Xander. You became a part of our work family as a young man and you will always remain so. You cultivated special relationships with many members of our staff and everyone of us will remember and cherish those relationships. To the Barnes family... We know there are no words of comfort that anyone can bring to you during this time of bereavement. We offer our deepest condolences and we pray that everyone who knew Xander will celebrate who he was and he supportive of his family.

• June 30, 2025

  Sheila Cox

  I had the privelege of working with Xander at both Sanderson High School and NRACT, and in all of those interactions, shows, show set ups, show break downs, and everything in between - I never, ever had an issue with Xander. He was always so respectful and helpful. I can't think of any other student that was as pleasant and enjoyable to work with as Xander. Until we meet again, Xander, and I'm not sure you're gonna find much to organize or straighten in heaven, but I'm sure there are plenty of songs to sing!

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  June 30, 2025

  Sasha Conner

  This is tragic! He was such a a good soul and always happy. Very nice "kid" and enjoyed working with him! God bless his family may God give them the strength the get through! So sad!

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  June 30, 2025

  Jennalie

  Xander, though I've only known you for 8 months, you've made memories that will last me a lifetime. I still regularly speak of the random quests you had taken me during my training at Liberty Tree Tavern and Diamond Horseshoe. You made sure I was able to watch the entire Festival of Fantasy parade, because I told you I've never seen it before. You showed me the dressing room and backstage of Diamond Horseshoe, because you knew I wouldn't get another chance to. Then my favorite memory of working in Magic Kingdom. During the Happily Ever After fireworks, you dropped everything you were doing and told me to just follow you and stay low. "This is a once in a lifetime experience that I think everyone should get to see," I still remember your words as we walked up the stairs. Watching fireworks from the roof of LTT was probably the coolest thing I've done during my DCP. You cared so much about my experience at work—even after just meeting me—and that meant so to me. I'll miss sitting in break rooms and spilling all our drama together. Rest easy, Xander. You will never be forgotten.

• 

  June 30, 2025

  Carlos

  Dear family and friends of Xander I want to express my sincere condolences for the loss of Xander. His passing has left a void in the lives of all who knew him. Xander was an exceptional person, full of life and with a bright future ahead of him. His smile, energy, and kindness touched the hearts of those who had the pleasure of knowing him. During this difficult time, I want you to know that you are in my thoughts and heart. I send you all my love and support. May you find strength in the family, friends, and beautiful memories you shared with Xander. With love and respect, Carlos Gruber

• 

  June 30, 2025

  Keisha

  an angel then and now

• 

  June 29, 2025

  Cammy

  Xander, With every day forward that I walk into Liberty Tree Tavern, my mind and heart both cannot process the reality that I no longer get to see you wandering into the lobby, long blonde hair flowing in the air, as you come down the stairs with your wonderful smile to greet everyone. It takes everything in me to be in the lobby and uphold a brave face, because I keep thinking of our conversations we'd have at podium, and your playful behavior, how happily you reacted to the fact I chose to extend for the whole year in my DCP. I had only gotten to know you for a little over 5 months, but the loss of your light is going to last me a lifetime. I really wanted to work alongside you during the holidays; I wanted to hear more about how beautiful the Diamond Horsehoe is during Christmas Time, more of your stories, and I'd do anything to have you as my coordinator or assignor one more time, always telling us at the end of the night how great we all did, especially on nights where I felt like I wasn't doing as good as I wanted to give. I think fondly of the night I got to spend time with you and the rest of our "Liberty Lads" after work at Waffle House and all the laughs that were shared that night, both in the restaurant and in the parking lot afterwards. I was hoping it would be the first night of many more during my program. My heart aches for everyone that has had the chance to experience your light and your love, especially your family. May you know that you are so dearly missed, and that you didn't have to be in the Festival of Fantasy to be a prince like you'd playfully mention to us at work. You already are one in many of our eyes. Thank you for sharing your magic with me, and for encouraging me to share mine with others. Your impact will never be forgotten, but always celebrated.

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  June 29, 2025

  Shellevator

  What I wouldn't do just to hug you one last time and share those encouraging words with you. Xander was a remarkable person, I admired how bright he was and how much love he poured onto others. The smiles, the dancing of his little tiny waist, the running around LTT while assigning and just the hair toss with the shades and you almost falling down the lobby stairs and me there to catch you. Xander to me will forever be my GQ model. He will never be forgotten and will continue to shine. I have met a lot of great people in life but Xander you were one for the books. Thank you for always having patience when I didn't understand things and always going out of your way to help me and just be there for support. Te Amo Mucho!

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  June 29, 2025

  Anna Stutts

  I've known Xander since we were in third grade, he was the first friend I made when I moved to North Ridge. Thankful for all of the memories throughout elementary, middle, and high school. Love you bud ❤️

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  June 29, 2025

  Sara

  Xander was one of a kind. The second I met him on my Disney College program I knew he was someone so special everyday I got the chance to work with him I knew it was going to be a good day of jokes and spilling tea with each other. Xander was the person I knew I could tell anything to and go to for a hug and pep talk (he gave the best hugs) even after I moved back home he and I constantly stayed in contact and I lit up when I would see a snapchat from Xander. Xander was a true light to everyone and made such a lasting impact on my life. My prayers go out to his family and I hope they know that Xander was so loved from people all over.

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  June 29, 2025

  Brooke Willse

  In the short 2 summers we shared as camp counselors and as castmates, Xander made me laugh every single day. His incredible outlook on life and his bright and infectious energy will stick with me for a lifetime.

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  June 29, 2025

  Tayler

  I only knew Xander for a short time but he is one of the most caring people I have ever met. I met him working at Liberty Tree Tavern, although I was shy Xander made me feel so welcomed (he once snuck my outside to go watch the period when I said I never got to see it). After my program I returned to LTT with my family, I was so nervous nobody would remember me. Xander came running up to me and gave me a big hug. All of my anxiety went away. He was truly such a special person and I am so lucky to have met him.

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  June 29, 2025

  Chris Dwyer and Wes Knapp

  We did not know Xander well directly, but knew him through his friend Eliza and the Sanderson High School drama program. He definitely was a shining star and a bright spot in every performance. Our hearts go out to all that knew him and our deepest condolences to his family.

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  June 29, 2025

  Richie

  I have no words, condolences to every life you touched

• June 29, 2025

  Val Murphy

  Xander you were loved by everyone blessed to know you. You lived life to the fullest and painted this world with such beautiful colors. You left quite an impact of loving memories for all of us to cherish and comfort us during this devastating time. Your spirit will live on through all of us who love and adore you. Fly high sweet angel . You will be forever loved and missed by all. 🙏🏼🫶💙

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  June 29, 2025

  jada

  I only knew Xander a short time but he taught me to be patient, have fun, and always be true to myself. I'll miss our endless snapchat conversations about all the new work drama. love you always

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  June 29, 2025

  Stephanie

  I have no words. Xander soul was just so pure and bright, as I know his wings now are. He will be very missed by all and never forgotten.

• June 29, 2025

  Maddie Alger

  Xander was a key part of making my NRACT experience so amazing. He never failed to put a smile on everyone's face. I will always cherish the memories we made together.

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  June 29, 2025

  Ryan Oliveira

  Got to work at NRACT growing up with Xander, his passion and kind hearted nature was ever present. He will be dearly missed.

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  June 29, 2025

  Monica & Karli Huether

  Karli and I have MANY wonderful memories with Xander! He was my daughter's "neighborhood BFF" during their grade school years. Fly high buddy... you'll definitely be missed on earth.

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  June 29, 2025

  Kim McKeithan

  Rockstar and I have you in our thoughts and heart during this time! We are sending you all the strength we have.