FRANKLIN
Rev. Donald Earl Black, 82, of Franklin, completed his life on earth and met his Heavenly Father on Thursday, March 16, 2017.
He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Ruby Marie Black, and four children, Donald Black Jr. (Cynthia) of Greenwood, Tonya Newkirk (Paul) of Whiteland, Jeffrey Black (Rhonda) of Franklin and Cathy Campbell (Barry) of Franklin.
He was known as Gramps to his five grandchildren, Heather, Grant, Joe, Amanda and Katie; and 10 great-grandchildren, Eli, Lilah, Corvin, Brooklyne, Braelyne, Eoghan, Clara, Seamus, Macson and Oliver.
He served in the U.S. Navy for four years.
He then worked as an airplane mechanic, restaurant cook and business owner before becoming an ordained Southern Baptist Minister in 1964. He pastored churches in Mississippi, Indiana and Alabama, and later became the director of missions in two separate associations in Alabama.
He returned to Indiana after retiring in 2000. In retirement, he became a Master Gardener and was happiest when working in his garden or yard.
He received an Associate of Arts degree from Clarke College, Bachelor of Arts degree from Purdue University and Master of Divinity from Samford University, Beeson School of Divinity.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Diabetes Association, www.diabetes.org; or 2451 Crystal Drive Suite 900, Arlington, VA 22202.
Arrangements are entrusted to Swartz Family Community Mortuary and Memorial Center, 300 S. U.S. 31 (Morton Street) in Franklin. A private grave site service will be held at a later date.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.swartzmortuary.com.
Information: 317-738-0202.
