Brian Joseph Black

Brian Joseph Black, 52, of Louisville passed away on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at Baptist Health following sudden cardiac arrest. As a registered organ donor, Brian died a hero as he was able to save others' lives at the end of his own.

Brian was born in Macomb County, Michigan on December 29, 1970 to Marvin and Dee Black. He had 2 brothers and 3 sisters, and at the age of 5, his family moved to Beaver Dam, Kentucky where he spent the rest of his childhood. Brian was active in marching band and boy scouts and was very proud to earn the honor of Eagle Scout. He experienced this accomplishment alongside his father, and it was very special to him to continue this legacy with his own son.

Brian attended Murray State University where he met the love of his life, Jennifer Haysley. He was a proud member of Sigma Chi fraternity and dearly treasured those friendships-especially the ones with lifelong friends, Scott and James. While at Murray, Brian earned a bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering and a master's degree in Occupational Safety and Health.

Brian spent the majority of his career in Human Resources and had several professional designations including CSP®, SHRM-CP, and PHR®. For the past 6 years, he enjoyed working as Human Resources Benefits Manager for Thortons LLC.

Brian and Jennifer married in 1994 and made their home in Louisville, KY. His most important role in life besides husband was Dad, having William, Hayden and Mary Claire. His family meant more to him than anything else in this world.

Brian was a member of Southeast Christian Church, Base Camp and Buzzard Brothers. He loved listening to music, going to concerts, participating in BBQ competitions, playing cards with friends, and sipping on Kentucky bourbon. Brian was known for his very large, giving heart. He would not hesitate to help anyone he could-day or night. This virtue continued, even upon his own death, as an Organ Donor.

Brian is reunited in heaven with his son Hayden, his father Marvin, his brothers Bob and Bill, and his in-laws Paul and Barbara.

He is survived by his wife Jennifer of 29 1/2 years, son William Ray, daughter Mary Claire, mom Dee Black, sisters Barbara (Randy) Hawks, Betty (Jerry) Fields, and Bridget Sexton, dogs Bella and Hazel, and an abundance of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and cousins.

At Brian's request, there will be no funeral arrangements, but a celebration of life with close friends and family.

All expressions of sympathy may be made in his name to Barren Heights -barrenheights.org -a ministry for families with special needs, which was very near and dear to Brian and his family, or to any charity that's near and dear to you.

Brian's family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the amazing people they have encountered throughout Brian's final journey on earth. Specifically, his Cardiac Intensive Care Unit medical team at Baptist Health, representatives from Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates (KODA), and Anchorage Middletown Fire & EMS team.