James T. Black

James T. Black 82 of Marlborough passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 21, 2025 at Rose Monahan Hospice Home, Worcester, MA.
James was born in New Washington, IN, the son of the late Thelbert and Marcela (Wilkerson) Black. He graduated from Hanover Southwestern Highschool Class of '60 and earned his BA from Purdue Class of '64.
Jim was passionate about helping other people. Throughout his career as a teacher of agriculture, welding, and other vocations he was passionate about teaching students and sharing his love of the trades. He was the District Manager for Big Blue Stores in IN, and he created great success for the company, but the most important accomplishment was how he cared for his employees and created a family atmosphere. His garden center was the envy of the town!
At First Church in Richmond, IN he oversaw the modernization of the church through various capital campaigns and projects. He sang in the choir and was a longtime member of church leadership. Jim developed many strong friendships there and made an annual pilgrimage to visit those friends after moving to Marlborough. When grandchildren came into his life, he and Mickey moved to Marlborough, MA to be close. He joined Pilgrim Church in Southborough, MA and became Church treasurer for many years, providing his significant experience and passion as well as his humor to benefit the Church. At Church, he sang in the choir, reached out to newcomers at coffee hour and always stayed to help with cleanup. His humor was such a special part of him and even those who only met him briefly could feel his warmth and humor. He also loved Purdue basketball!
As accomplished as he was, his great love was family. His family, friends, and his pets and grandpets were the great joy of his life. If anyone needed help, he was quick to respond and he was always there to listen and provide sound advice or a ride to the hospital.
James is survived by his wife of 60 years Marion W. (Willey) Black of Marlborough, 2 daughters, Christine E. Black of Hudson, Sarah J. Hile and her husband David of Westborough, 2 grandchildren, Alexander and Isaiah Hile, a sister, Marge Shepherd of IN, his 3 granddogs, Drax, Gamora and Tesla, 3 grandcats, Daisy, Fussy and Adanar.
A Celebration of Life will be held for James at Pilgrim Church, Southborough, MA on November 14, 2026 at 11:30am. In Liu of flowers donations can be made to Pilgrim Church's Youth Group (PCYG). Pilgrim Church, P.O. Box 281, Southborough, MA 01772.
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