Don Black Memorialized last Saturday
Don Black, Editor and Publisher of the Dayton Weekly News was memorialized on Saturday September 11th at Ethan Temple Seventh-Day Adventist Church. Don passed away in April of 2020 but because it was during the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic the decision was made to postpone his services until his church, where he has been a member for more than 50 years was able to reopen.
A host of family, friends, and business colleagues from across the country gathered to pay respects to their beloved friend, mentor, colleague, and family member. A few of the speakers to attend the service included Judge Walter Rice, Regina Holman from Congressman Mike Turner’s office, Dr. Anthony Whitmore, former Director of Government and Community Relations for Greater Dayton RTA, childhood friends Vernon Holman and Clearance McGill, church friends Frank Watkins and William Ragin, Sr. We were also blessed with stories of his childhood from his sisters Carol Sullivan and Barbara Augistine. “I knew he would do great things because he was so creative as a child.” Said Sister Barbara in her tearful tribute to her oldest brother.
Resolutions and proclamations were presented from Ethan Temple SDA Church, the Roosevelt High School class of 1963, and the Dayton African Elders Council. Beautiful musical selections were delivered by his brother, nieces, and the Ethan Temple Praise Team. Pastor Mackenzie Kambizi delivered a beautiful eulogy and was followed by a final tribute from his son, Donerik Black. Donerik is the current Editor and Publisher of the Dayton Weekly News. Said Donerik about his father, “He told me that as long as he was alive, he would continue to parent me. It wasn’t until recently that I realized that even at 51 years of age I still need my parent.”
The Black family would like to extend a special thank-you to all the heartfelt thoughts and prayers from friends, family, and colleagues over the past year. Your words of encouragement and fond memories of Don Black were greatly appreciated.
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