George Joseph “Joe” Black, age 90 of Salem, passed away on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at his home.
Joe was born on February 23, 1935 in Princeton, Indiana, the son of George E. and Martha Angeline (Hospon) Black. He married Mary L. (Cunningham) Black on June 19, 1958 after a seven-year relationship, and together they shared 62 years united in marriage until her passing on February 2, 2021. From this union they had two children, a daughter, Susan L. (Black) Gordon and husband Tom of Odin, and the late Richard Edward “Ed” Black, who passed away on March 25, 2023.
Also surviving are several nieces and nephews, his grandchildren, Justin E. Black and special friend, Hannah Redfeairn, Rebecca A. “Becky” Vosholler and husband Tyler, and Baylee M. Black and fiancé Robby Smith; great grandchildren, Gabriel “Gabe” and Elijah “Eli” Vosholler, and a great granddaughter, Naomi on the way; his brother, David E. Black of Salem; sister in-laws: Sue Black of Salem and Nancy Cunnigham of Georgia; his special companion and second true love, Sharon Cook of Centralia; and lifelong friends, Jack Woods, Frank Brinkerhoff, Barbara Holsapple, Sharon Woodward, and Donna and Duane Engel all of Salem.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Mary, his son, Ed; a brother, Richard H. Black; sister-in-law, Shirley Dunn; and his mother in-law: Edna Cunningham.
Joe was known to many as a snazzy dresser who looked forward to living and did just that up till 3 days before his passing. You could see him out eating with family, friends, and his “My Lady”, Sharon Cook.
He honorably served his country in the United States Army National Guard, where he served for seven years as a staff sergeant.
Joe was a dedicated member of the Salem Presbyterian Church USA for 79 years, where he served as both a deacon and elder. He spent over 60 years in the insurance industry, owning and operating Joe Black Insurance Agency in Salem. Beyond his professional achievements, Joe was deeply involved in his community. He was a member of the Salem Lions Club for 69 years, twice serving as president, and was also part of the Masonic Lodge for 51 years, with memberships in the Salem, Odin, and Kinmundy Lodges. He was a past president of the Salem Shrine Club and served on the Salem Airport Authority for 48 years. Additionally, Joe was an active member of the Salem Chamber of Commerce and the Salem American Legion. For many years, he spread holiday cheer by portraying Santa Claus for various individuals and organizations during Christmas. For over 40 years at the Salem Presbyterian Church’s Christmas dinner, Joe served as the “Chief Mashed Potato Maker”.
Funeral services for George Joseph “Joe” Black will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at Noon at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem with Denise Burke officiating followed by military rites by the Salem American Legion. Visitation will be held on Friday, April 4th from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. There will be Masonic Rites and a Shriner’s walkthrough on Friday at 7:00p.m. Memorial contributions can be made to the Salem Presbyterian Church or the St. Louis Shiner’s Hospital and can be left at the funeral home. Online condolences and memories can be left at www.CrouseFH.com.