Charlotte, North Carolina, September 1, 2025
News Summary
Donald V. Black, a beloved husband and father from Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away peacefully. He is remembered for his strong work ethic, dedication to family, and unwavering love. His life spanned impactful roles, including various jobs and caring for his wife. Donald’s legacy will live on through his family and the community he cherished.
Charlotte, North Carolina – Donald V. Black, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025, at the age of 85. His family remembers him fondly as a man of character with a strong work ethic and an unwavering love for his family.
Born on December 19, 1939, to James Waldon Black and Bessie Jack (Keziah) Black, Donald shared his life with his wife, JoAnn (Phifer) Black, whom he married in 1959. The couple celebrated an impressive 65 years of marriage, showcasing a profound bond characterized by love and resilience.
Donald is survived by his wife, JoAnn, and their three children: Donald E. Black, Charles V. Black, and Cathey Jo (Black) Crowder. He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren—Jeffrey, Sabrina, Joseph Black, Ashley and Jessey Crowder, and Zachary Black—as well as a great-grandfather to numerous children, including Marcus, Ja’Michael, Lanayzah, Aubrey, Zoe, Zack, Anneliese, Bentley, Brayden, along with great-great-grandchildren Aubrielle and Amiri. He also leaves behind his sister, Clayton Honeycutt, and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
In addition to his numerous relatives, Donald was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, including James Edward Black, Tommy Black, Jack David Black, Charles Waldon Black, and Sarah (Black) Lambert. He was also mourned by nephews and a niece who passed before him.
The family will hold a visitation on September 6, 2025, at 10 am, which will be followed by a service at 11 am at Forest Lawn West. Attendees are encouraged to come “as you are,” honoring Donald’s appreciation for authenticity. The family has also requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to assist with JoAnn’s future care.
Donald was a diligent worker, holding various jobs throughout his life. He notably worked at a radiator shop, delivered telegrams for Western Union, and dedicated over thirty years of his life to Charlotte Steel Drum before retiring in 1999. Even after retirement, he continued to be active, taking on roles as a truck driver, Wal-Mart greeter, and a bus driver at Charlotte Airport. In his later years, he devoted himself to caring for JoAnn as her health declined due to dementia.
Described by his family as a jokester who loved unconditionally, Donald’s legacy is enriched by the sacrifices he made for his children and family. He was known as “PawPaw” to his grandchildren, always ready to lend a helping hand. His commitment to family and community remained strong, as he engaged wholeheartedly in work and activities until his final days in memory care.
Donald V. Black’s life is a testament to the values of family, hard work, and love, marking an enduring impact on everyone who knew him. His memory will live on through the lives of those he touched and in the stories that will be shared for generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Donald V. Black pass away?
Donald V. Black passed away on August 28, 2025.
How many years of marriage did Donald and JoAnn Black celebrate?
Donald and JoAnn Black celebrated 65 years of marriage.
How many grandchildren and great-grandchildren did Donald have?
Donald had six grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.
What were some of Donald’s jobs?
Donald worked at a radiator shop, delivered telegrams for Western Union, was employed at Charlotte Steel Drum for over thirty years, and worked as a truck driver, Wal-Mart greeter, and bus driver at Charlotte Airport after retirement.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Date of Passing | August 28, 2025 |
| Date of Birth | December 19, 1939 |
| Marriage | 65 years with JoAnn (Phifer) Black |
| Children | Donald E. Black, Charles V. Black, Cathey Jo (Black) Crowder |
| Grandchildren | 6 grandchildren |
| Great-Grandchildren | Numerous |
| Occupations | Radiator shop worker, Western Union telegram deliverer, Charlotte Steel Drum employee, truck driver, Wal-Mart greeter |
| Legacy | Strong work ethic, dedication to family, and unconditional love |
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Donald V. Black Obituary
- Legacy: Donald V. Black Obituary
- Newcomer Funeral Home: Donald Metzger Obituary
- Berkebile Funeral Home: Galen Black Obituary
- News Journal Online: Obituaries
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Google Search: Donald V. Black
- Google Scholar: Donald V. Black
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Donald V. Black
- Google News: Donald V. Black
Author: HERE Charlotte
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