Robert J. Black, Jr. of Hazen, Arkansas passed away Thursday, August 12, 2021 at the age of 74 surrounded by those he loved the most. Robert was born and raised in Jonesboro, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert “Polly” Black and Wilma Black and his sister, Carolyne Hunnicutt.
Robert is survived by his best friend and wife of 52 years, Dee Mathis Black, and their three children, Kristy (Doug) Grunwald, Jenny (Jason) Simmons, and Robert III (Abby) Black and the pride and joys of his life, his six grandchildren, Elleson and Molly Grunwald, Owen and Ethan Simmons and Wyatt and Will Black; his sister, Thea (Black) Mathis, as well as many special nieces and nephews, cousins, and a very dear Aunt, Lola Mae Ladd and his best friend of 62 years and brother-in-law, Mike Owen.
Robert attended Jonesboro schools and enjoyed playing sports which developed into his first career along side his Dad refereeing basketball, baseball and football games. Robert graduated from Arkansas State University and had a career of 30 years in electrical sales with ITE, General Electric and Eaton. He retired to Hazen, Arkansas to spend his time hunting. In 2005, he purchased the Hazen True Value Hardware store. Robert enjoyed supporting the community and attending as many Hornet Sporting events as possible, but his favorite place to spend his days were on his tractor and on his porch sitting beside his wife watching the one of kind sunsets that can only be seen looking across his prairie.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, August 21, 2021 at Hazen United Methodist Church. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorials to be sent to: Hazen Baseball Association c/o Jenny Simmons, P.O. Box 544 Hazen, Ar. 72064 and/or Hazen United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 712 Hazen, Ar. 72064.
Oh, the fond memories. Three years together in Mrs. Astons home room.
A church league basketball championship. Fun filled trips to basketball state
tournaments and a memorable guys trip to St. Louis to party and see the
Cardinals play. A good friend and a fine person.
A wonderful friend. We had a million laughs.
I have always considered Robert a dear business friend. I had the honor of spending many hours working with Robert while he was at ITE. He was always nice and friendly. I knew Robert had returned to Hazel. I know he had a blessed life and family. I am am sad that he is gone but I know he is now with Jesus haven. You were a blessing to know and a dear friend.
My prayers are with the family.
The JHS Class of 1965 has lost another classmate. Robert was always fun to be around. He will be missed.
So very sorry for your loss. He was always so nice and friendly. Many prayers for his beautiful family.
Robert was a very special friend from East School all the way thru school.He and his family were just the best people …so loving and kind to all. My memories of Robert are fond ones and my sympathy goes out to Dee and their children! Also to Mike and Gince. who feel such a great Ginger. Praying for you all as you face tough days ahead.
Robin
Love thoughts and prayers continue for you all.I held my Dad’s hand when he took his last breath. It is something you never forget.You will miss him . Knowing he is in a better place in no pain gets you through the hard times. Love you and your family.
So very sorry. Loosing both my parents, a sister and brother will take its toll on you and sometimes too much depression. Hold your mama tight.
Robert and I played Little League baseball together, his dad Polly was our coach. I remember Robert inviting me to go with them to Little Rock when his
dad refereed an AllStar game. What a great weekend with a special friend.
As an extraordinary man in many ways, Mr. Robert Black left a precious legacy that will be cherished by all those who knew him. His kind generosity touched many lives. He was a friend to families in need, an encourager to the downtrodden, a supporter of his local rural fire department, a contributor to church activities, the local school district, his town and county–the list goes on and on. He was loved and appreciated. And he will be dearly missed. May God’s Word and His Holy Spirit (the “Comforter”) provide strength, comfort, and assurance to his wonderful family.
So sorry for your loss. Hazen got such a blessing when Mr. Robert came to town. He will be missed! I pray that you will find comfort and strength in your memories and in a loving God.