Richard Earle Black, Sr., 82 of Arab, Alabama died Sunday January 29, 2017 at Shepherd’s Cove Hospice.
Mr. Black was born February 25, 1934 in Jefferson County to John Wesley Black and Aleene Ogletree Black. He graduated from West End High School and later earned his degree in mechanical engineering. He served in the U.S. Army and was employed by NASA as a rocket scientist until his retirement. His wife, Elizabeth Anne Black preceded him in death on April 5, 2009. He moved to Arab in 1988 from Huntsville. Mr. Black was a former member of the Arab Rotary Club and served as President twice.
He was a member of Arab First United Methodist Church.
Mr. Black is survived by his children and in-laws: Rick Black, Valerie and Anthony Black and Kathleen Phillips; his grandchildren: Sarah Grace Byrd and Tyler, Riley Phillips, Natalie Ball, Jason and Savannah Ball, Bonner Black and Battle Black. He was preceded in death by his parents: John and Aleene Black and his wife Elizabeth Anne Black.
Funeral service will be 1:00 p.m. Wednesday February 1, 2017 at Arab First United Methodist Church with Rev. Steve West, officiating. Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will be in Brookwood Cemetery with Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel, directing.
In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to Shepherd’s Cove Hospice at 408 Martling Rd, Albertville, Al 35951.
