Hugh E. Black, Sr.

Hugh Edward Black, Sr., lifelong resident of Columbus, Ohio, peacefully made his transition to glory on Saturday, August 25, 2018 at the age of eighty-four. Mr. Black was born on August 26,1933 in Columbus Ohio as the middle son of James and Elbertha Black.

In his early years, Mr. Black resided in the historical Poindexter Village Community and attended Columbus Public Schools. He graduated from Columbus East High School and later attended Columbus Technical Institute. He valued hard, honest work and landed his first job as a newspaper delivery boy in the Eastgate Community. He was united in marriage in March 1958 to Thelma Grinston and from that union three beautiful children were born; Tracee, Hugh Jr. (Duke) and Tonya.

Mr. Black worked as a planner with Rockwell formerly North American Rockwell Aviation where he was affectionately known as “Godfather” and retired after 35 years of dedicated service. After retirement, he shared his love of community as an employee of the Private Industry Council (PIC) and the Urban League of Columbus.  He was a committee member on the East High School and the 20th Street reunions. In his early years Mr. Black enjoyed playing basketball and roller skating. He was a talented artist and enjoyed capturing special moments as the family photographer. He was known for his gentle spirit, sweet smile, classy attire and his famous baked beans.

Mr. Black was a faithful and humble servant of God and a long time member of Mount Olivet Baptist Church where he was known as “The Senator.” Under the leadership of both Dr. H. Beecher Hicks, Sr. and Dr. Charles E. Booth, Mr. Black held many positions, some of which included: Chair of the Trustee Board, Hospitality Committee Chair and Inspirational Choir member, credit union staff member, church receptionist, basketball coach and mentor. He truly loved Mt. Olivet Baptist Church and his church family.

Mr. Black was preceded in death by his parents James and Elbertha Black, brother; James Black, Jr., special cousin; Cecile Townes, best friends; Charles Evans and Jean Mackey.  Mr. Black leaves to cherish his memories and celebrate his life; his brother, David E. Black, Sr.; his children; Tracee Black-Fall, Hugh Black, Jr, and Tonya Black; along with his beloved grandchildren; Trevor (Twana), Terry, Tova, Taiesha, TaSonda, Tyree, Terryn and Beecher; 18 great  grandchildren; special daughters; Angela Dawson(John) and Michelle Fitzgerald(David); special granddaughter; Airregina Clay, goddchildren; Stephanie Thompson, Ernie Mackey, and Robin Washington. He also leaves sister-in-laws; Glendora and Marie Black, Judy, Lois and Lenora Grinston and brother-in-law Larry Grinston, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The family of Hugh Black would like to extend special thanks to: Monta Rocker, Gerlinde Higgenbotham, McDonald’s-Alum Creek Breakfast Club, National Church Residence, Otterbein of Ghana Senior Living, Dr. Charles E. Booth and the Mt. Olivet Church family.

Family will receive friends on Tuesday, September 4, 2018 at 11am until the time of service at 12pm at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, 428 E. Main Street, Columbus, OH 43215. Arrangements by WHITE’S FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES, 867 S. JAMES ROAD, COLS, OH  43227, BENJAMIN F. “BENNY” WHITE, JR, FUNERAL DIRECTOR, (614)947-1123, whitesfh867.com. 

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