Obituary of John Thomas Black

John Thomas Black (June 30, 1926 - June 4, 2013) passed away after a full and vibrant life. He was a native Charlottean, and best known as "Paw-Paw" to all he met. Always a dapper dresser when out and about, John made it a point to speak to everyone. He greeted every passerby with a hearty "Good morning!" or "How are you doing?" He made friends everywhere he went by offering a Starburst or caramel to those around, earning him the nickname "Candyman". Paw-Paw would bring laughter and a smile, help however he could, and make any day brighter. He loved his family and friends with his whole heart. John talked proudly about his family, both his own and the extended family he formed through his career, his church and his community. He began his career in 1949 with the Charlotte Fire Department (Station #2), retiring as a Captain in 1969. Always seen with a camera in his hand, John loved snapping candids of family and friends, as well as taking professional photos. Early on he worked at B&H Photo, and finished his career at Colorcraft film processing working from 1962-1994. Calvary United Methodist Church was a second home to Paw-Paw for over 80 years. He was blessed to have held close friendships with members of the Bill Cobb Sunday School Class, some for over 50 years. He also served as President of the United Methodist Men and was very successful in his ongoing efforts to raise support for the R & R fund. A big supporter of community, he was active in the Director's Staff of the Oasis Shrine; the Steele Creek Masonic Lodge; and coaching Little League baseball. John enjoyed attending community and family events to support those he loved. Included in his "family" are his long time neighbors who enjoyed his perfectly maintained yard, large block parties, and friendly demeanor. John was predeceased by his loving wife of 53 years, Martha Noles Black; two sisters, Joy Black and Mary Ann Butler; and his parents Thomas Wilder and Campbell Black. Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Melanie Black Mason; sons, Thomas Black and wife Betsy and John Black Jr. and wife, Sharon; grandchildren, Glenn Mason Jr. (Crystal), Kevin Mason (Stephanie), Sarah Mason, Thomas Black, Jordan Black, Carrie Beth Black, Jake Black and Nick Black; his sister, Alice Jarrell; his three brothers - Robert Black and wife Ruby, Joe Black and Gene Black and five great-grandchildren. The family would like to extend their appreciation to the staff of Brighton Gardens community living center, and Hospice and Palliative Care Charlotte Region. The family will receive friends Friday, June 7, 2013, from 6:00 to 8:30PM at Hankins & Whittington. Funeral service for Mr. Black will be held 11:00 AM Saturday June 8, 2013, at Calvary United Methodist Church. Interment will follow in Forest Lawn West Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Calvary United Methodist Church, 512 West Blvd. Charlotte, NC, 28203 or Hospice and Palliative Care Charlotte Region, 1420 E. Seventh St., Charlotte, NC 28204.