DeWanda B. Black, a devoted mother and grandmother, born on July 19, 1942, in Athens, Alabama, passed away on March 21, 2025, in Toney, Alabama. She was 82. and had lived a life defined by strength, love, and an unwavering belief in treating others with kindness and fairness.
In a time when few women led in male-dominated industries, DeWanda made her mark running a cotton gin and fertilizer business, commanding respect with her sharp mind, steady leadership, and deep passion for her work. She loved what she did and believed in hard work, integrity, and the simple truth that if you treated people right, they would do the same in return. During ginning season, it was a family affair—cotton always came first!
DeWanda never missed an opportunity to express pride in her family. She beamed when speaking about her eldest son, Mike, and his husband, both dedicated nurses, often bragging about Mike’s exceptional cooking skills. She also held close the memory of her late son, Mark, cherishing the times they spent watching sports together. She adored her grandsons—Will, who inherited her love for agriculture and always kept her updated on farming trends and what he was working on in the field. She also loved keeping up with other cotton gins, always eager to hear the latest industry news. And of course, there was Freddy, whose passion for sports brought her endless joy and who also served as her go-to tech support.
She never missed a chance to show off a picture of her beautiful granddaughter, Layla, proudly telling everyone about her. When the hospice nurses visited, she filled their time with stories—what her grandsons were up to, how her son and granddaughter were doing, and how her granddaughter-in-law was completing classes to obtain a social work degree and her volunteer efforts. She also loved reminiscing about her vacations with her sister, Linda—though it was well-known they often got lost along the way!
A true Auburn fan through and through, DeWanda’s enthusiasm for her team and NASCAR was unmatched. She and Will spent many Sundays cheering against Toyota with as much passion as they cheered for their favorites. And while Auburn was always her team, if they weren’t playing Alabama, she’d happily cheer for the Crimson Tide—especially if Freddy was in the room!
Fiercely independent, she always wanted to take care of others while rarely letting anyone take care of her. DeWanda was so stubborn, it was her way or the highway—though, knowing her, she probably would’ve built the highway herself just to prove a point!
She found comfort in the companionship of her beloved cat, Aubie, and cherished moments cuddling with her granddog, Uno. Above all, DeWanda loved her family deeply, and her love will continue to be felt in the hearts of those who knew her.
She will be forever missed but never forgotten
She is survived by her son, Michael Lloyd Black, and husband, Brent Beaman, as well as three grandchildren: Fredrick Lloyd Black, William Wyatt Black and his wife, Madison, and Layla Black.
DeWanda was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd Black, and her son, Timothy Mark Black. She will be remembered for her strength and dedication to her family and her business.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hospice of Limestone County.
The family has planned a private celebration of life. Hazel Green Funeral Home is honored to serve.
