Edward Dalton Black Sr.

Edward Dalton Black Sr., 78, of Jonesboro, passed away on August 3, 2025, at the Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House. Edward was born in Jonesboro on August 18, 1946, to the late Freddie and Bertha Black. In addition to his parents, Edward is preceded in death by his step-brother James Edward Duke; brother-in-law Roosevelt Walker; and his aunt Ada Biggs.

Edward was born and raised in Jonesboro and eventually raised his children there as well. He was a devoted Christian and member of Spruce St. Baptist Church. He lived a life full of love with his family around him. Edward enjoyed cross-stitching, embroidering, bird watching, and listening to old country and gospel classics. He also loved laughing and joking with his kids, especially his son Fred. Edward had a big heart, offering love and compassion to everyone he met. The only thing that could rival his love of family was his love of the Christmas season. Edward collected Christmas villages and spent years perfecting his collection. He was exceptionally proud of the Christmas village tree his family had built by hand to display his collection. Every person who visited during Christmas enjoyed the hard work and dedication Edward and his wife put into building an amazing village.

Edward is survived by his wife of 55 years, Zelba Onedithe Hutchison Black; children Eddie Black Jr (Angela) of Jonesboro, Freddie Black (Racheal) of Jonesboro, Sara Hanley (Philip) of Jonesboro, Kenneth Hoots of Bono, and bonus daughter Melba Jane Walker; grandchildren Britney Black, Cody Black, Hunter Black, Madison Hanley, and bonus grandchild Jaymie Hutchison; and many more nieces, nephews, friends, loved ones, and the many kids he helped raise throughout the years.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on August 6, 2025, at Emerson Funeral Home. A funeral service will take place the following morning, August 7, 2025, at 10:00 am, also at Emerson Funeral Home. Burial will follow the service at Herndon Cemetery with Pastor Randy Page officiating.

Pallbearers include Eddie Black, Freddie Black, Jay Perry, Danny Hutchison, Wyman Hutchison, and Ricky Hutchison. Honorary Pallbearers include Randy Woodbury, Jamie Jones, and William (Bud) Hutchison.