Robert E. Black

1935 - 2021

Robert E. Black, 85, of Jacksonville died Monday, Jan. 25, 2021, at Passavant Area Hospital in Jacksonville.

He was born June 22, 1935, in Jacksonville, the son of Lloyd and Helen Smith Black. Bob married Kay Shive on Jan. 26, 1980, and again on Feb. 10, 1980, at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, and she survives.

Bob also is survived by his children, David Black of Jacksonville and Courtenay (Jack) Casaccio of Palatine; a special niece, Lisa Lindsey of Indianapolis, Indiana; grandchildren, Caitlin Black and Connor Black, both of Minnesota, and John Robert "Jack" Casaccio and Max Black Casaccio, both of Palatine; one sister, Betty Peterson of Missouri; one aunt, Lucille Martinek of Springfield; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one son, Mark Black; one brother, James Black (surviving wife, Carolyn of Jacksonville); and two sisters, Barbara Lutz (surviving husband, Robert of Branson, Missouri), and Joyce Lehner (surviving husband, Walt of Seminole, Florida).

In his youth, Bob was active at Central Christian Church. In his later years, he became a member of First Presbyterian Church. He also was a lifetime member of the Elks, through which he coached Little League for several years. Bob loved socializing and keeping up with the latest happenings in his beloved hometown.

The Black family co-owned Blackhawk Motel, Village Apartments, Smorgasbord and Village Pump restaurants from 1961 to 1985. Bob also ran a travel agency and a retail gift shop for many years before transitioning to his favorite retirement pastime, making and selling Black's Magic seasonings. Through his seasoning business, he kept in touch with loyal customers and friends across the United States. Bob also thoroughly enjoyed spending time with friends and family and supporting his grandsons at their sporting events.

A graveside service will be at 3 p.m. Friday, Jan. 29, 2021, at the Diamond Grove Columbarium at Diamond Grove Cemetery. An informal walk-through visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday at Williamson Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested to First Presbyterian Church, The Art Association of Jacksonville or Bob Freesen YMCA. Condolences may be left online at airsman-hires.com.