He was born January 4, 1939, in Savannah, Georgia, to William E. Sr. and Mildred (Dixon) Black. A veteran of the U.S. Army, William served as a Chaplain’s Assistant, a role that reflected a steady devotion to faith and a life shaped by quiet service to others. In his younger years, he sang in quartets and as a soloist, offering his voice with sincerity and purpose.
William was hard-working and steadfast, retiring from Haworth after 21 years. He was a member of Central Wesleyan Church, where his faithful spirit was evident in his love of reading the Bible and discussing its passages—conversations marked by care, conviction, and a generous willingness to share what mattered most to him.
In 1965, William married Carolyn (Brink), and together they shared 61 years of marriage. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn (Brink); his children, Kristina (Keith) Smith and Kevin Black; and his grandchildren, Elliana (Logan) Harig, Serena (Nicholas) Essenburg, Marlaina Smith, and Josiah Smith. He is also survived by his brother, Richard Black; his sister-in-law, Karen Brink; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends. William dearly loved his grandchildren, and they loved him in return.
There will be a celebration of life with military honors at 6:30pm on September 17, 2026 (Thursday), at Central Wesleyan Church, 446 W. 40th St., Holland.
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