Patricia Ann Black

A Life Remembered, A Legacy Cherished
Patricia Ann Black, 80, of Hackett, Arkansas, passed away on October 29, 2025. She was born on September 8, 1945, in Delhi, Louisiana, to Herman Edward Stout and Vergie (Patsy) Ernestine Copes. Her family was completed by her only sister, Terry Priest. On January 6, 1972, she married the love of her life, James Willis Black, with whom she shared many wonderful years.
Pat graduated from Santa Ana Junior College in California with an associate's degree, later earning her bachelor's degree from Southern Arkansas University and her master's degree from Arkansas Tech University. Her lifelong commitment to education and students was evident through her 59 years of service to the Hackett School District. During her 44-year career at Hackett High School, she served as an English teacher, librarian, senior class sponsor, and special programs coordinator, and she founded the Patricia A. Black Chapter of the National Honor Society. Following her retirement from teaching, she continued to dedicate her time and wisdom as a member of the Hackett Board of Education for 15 additional years. Her exceptional dedication earned her recognition in Who's Who Among American High School Teachers.
Beyond her educational career, Mrs. Black was a pillar of her community. She served as a member of the Hackett City Council as Recorder, Secretary/Treasurer for Pleasant Hill Cemetery, a founding member of the Hackett Public School Education Foundation, and remained an active presence in countless community initiatives. Due to her contributions to the city, May 2 has been proclaimed as Patricia A. Black day in the city of Hackett, Arkansas. She enjoyed reading, scrapbooking, puzzles, and yardwork and will be remembered for her passion, generosity, and devotion to improving the lives of others.
Pat's greatest joy came from her family. She is survived by her children, Tracie Ann Opolka and husband Mike, and Paul Darin Black; grandchildren, Sue Ann (Husband Karson), Chase (Wife Sara), Sydnie, Megan, and Brandon; and great-grandchildren, Kirby, Kash, Kimber, and Ellie. She is also survived by her nieces Katie Staed and Christina Krag; and many dear friends and former students who will cherish her memory.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at Grace Community Church, 4001 Broken Hill Drive, Fort Smith, Arkansas, with officiants Ben Fisher, Trent Null, and Logan Bennett. Pallbearers will be Chase Opolka, Karson Brown, Brandon Black, Ethan Hostetter, Garrett Bennett, and Jacob Smith. Honorary pallbearers include Jimmy Dale Black, Bill Pittman, Michael Opolka, Scott Rice, Dean Lamm, Wade Bennett, Bob McAfee, Brad Smith, John Bloemhof, and Johnny James. Visitation will take place on Monday, November 3, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at River Glenn Chapel, 1805 North A Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hackett Public School Education Foundation, P.O. Box 23, Hackett, AR 72937.
Mrs. Pat Black will be remembered as a devoted educator, community leader, and friend who influenced thousands of students - their children, and their children's children. Her legacy of faith, service, and love for her community will continue to inspire generations to come. Services are under the thoughtful care of River Glenn Cremation and Funeral Services. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Patricia, please visit our floral store.