George Franklin Black, 81, transitioned to his heavenly home Friday, December 31, 2021. Born and raised in Norfolk, VA, he was the son of the late Jessie and Dora Black. George was preceded in death by his wife Clementine B. Black and brothers: Bobby, Jessie, and Willie Black.
From a broadcast engineer with Atlantic Records in NYC to a mail clerk with the USPS, George held many jobs throughout his life, but he was most proud of his service with the United States Marine Corps.
George was one to not let grass grow under his feet. He loved to travel and never met a stranger. Additionally, he loved a good southern meal, the Giant’s, nice cars, fancy clothes, westerns, World War Two history, and music. George could often be heard shouting to Alexa to play some of his favorites by Sarah Vaughan, Engelbert Humperdinck, and The Flamingos. Gospel music also filled his soul especially when it was coming from his beloved place of worship, New Calvary Baptist Church Norfolk.
Left to cherish George’s memory are his children: Keith Black of Virginia Beach and Melody Grant (Keith) of Virginia Beach; grandchildren: Jordan Grant, Kalani Black, Bryce Grant, and Tatum Black. He is also survived by the mother of his children and forever friend, Alice Black of Virginia Beach along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
A special thank you to all caregivers, doctors, and nurses at Harmony at Independence, Commonwealth at Leigh Hall, Sentara Leigh Hospital, and the Hampton VA Medical Center.
Friends and family will be received on Monday, January 10, 2022, from 3-6 PM at Keith Matthews Funeral Home. Due to the surge in Covid, an outdoor memorial will be held on January 19, 2022, at 3:00 PM at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk, Virginia.
In lieu of flowers, his family requests donations be made to the COPD Foundation https://www.copdfoundation.org/take-action/donate/donate-now.aspx
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