Ricky Don Black

Ricky Don Black, 74, of Waldron, Arkansas, went peacefully to his Heavenly Home on Thursday, January 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Rick was born on January 22, 1951, in Waldron, Arkansas, to Billy Don and Mary Ann (Newberry) Black. He grew up in Waldron and remained in Waldron all his life.
Rick worked alongside his Dad, Billy Don, for many years at Black's Apco service station, and eventually became owner-operator. He serviced the needs of the citizens of Waldron with honesty, integrity, and a smile. Friendships too numerous to count were formed at the Apco! Along with hard work, a little mischief took place now and then. Laughter could often be heard, and lifetime memories were made. After retiring from the Apco (Black's BP), Rick went to work for the Scott County Road Department, where he worked for the last twelve years.
Rick enjoyed taking care of his cattle, horse racing, and attending the Chuckwagon Races at Clinton, Arkansas every year when possible. Most of all, he enjoyed time spent with his family, making precious memories.
Rick was an active member of Pleasant Grove #3 Church and took his faith and relationship with Christ very seriously, and desired that others would do the same.
Rick is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Virginia, his daughter, Pam Bates and son-in-law Rick Bates, granddaughter Kasey Hurst and husband Eric, great-grandchildren, Thomas, Haysley, and Carson; his mother Mary Ann Sanders, brother Dub (Brenda) Black, his sister Tina (Stanley) Brewer, and his nephews, Billy (Anita) Black, Steven (Kristy) Black, Keith Sanders, Tyler (Kallee) Brewer. Along with numerous cousins, extended family members, and friends, who will all cherish his memory.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, his father Billy Don Black, his sister Regina, brother Chris Black, stepfather Bill Sanders, and grandson Chase Bates.
Family will receive friends on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Martin Funeral & Cremation Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas. A service for Rick will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 2:30 p.m., at the Martin Funeral & Cremation Chapel. Interment will follow at Pleasant Grove #3 Cemetery in Waldron, Arkansas.
Pallbearers include Billy Black, Steven Black, Tyler Brewer, Greg Aynes, Jamie Hale, and Myrtie Owens. Honorary pallbearers include Stanley Brewer, Billy Gossett, Gary Hunt, and Mike Wright.
As we honor and remember Rick, our loss here is Heavens' gain. We can say this isn't goodbye, but we'll see you later when we all get to Heaven.
Arrangements are under the direction of Martin Funeral & Cremation – Waldron.