James E. Black, Sr.
James E Black, Sr. (Jim) of Center Twp. passed away on Sunday November 14, 2021. He was born in Niles, OH on August 16, 1933, the oldest son of the late Edward and Caroline Black.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters: Suzanne Owsley and Karen Martincic.
He is survived by the love of his life for 63 years, his wife Geraldine Lyons (Geri), Center Twp., PA and two children: son James Black, Jr, Claremore, OK; daughter Ellen Gros, Beaver Falls, PA; and his buddy: grandson Scott E. Gros, Jr., State College, PA. He is also survived by his brother Thomas Black (wife Lois) Harmony, PA; brothers-in-law Dave Owsley and John Martincic, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Jim was a graduate of Monaca High School and obtained a BS from Ohio Christian College. He was a PA certified Municipal Police Officer and graduated with honors from the very first Police Academy Class of the Community College of Beaver County.
Jim was a proud veteran who served his country during the Korean War in the United States Air Force. He trained in Airbase Defense combat training (ABD) and as a military air policeman in the canine corp. He also served in the PA National Guard.
Of note, Jim was the first Police Chief of Potter Twp, PA and later was a police officer in Rochester Twp., PA, and Center Twp., PA.
Jim was retired from Zinc Corporation of America after 34 years. Upon retirement, Jim volunteered and taught “55 Alive” Defensive Driver classes for seniors, was member of CONTACT Beaver Valley, and volunteered for the Crimson Line at Friendship Ridge Nursing Home. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Aliquippa. He was a life member of the VFW and Center Twp VFW as well as a member of the Monaca Center Lodge #791 F&AM.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 19, 2021 in Huntsman Funeral Home, 2345 Mill St. Aliquippa, PA. Visitors will be received at 10AM with the service beginning at 11 AM.
A private burial will be held at Burns Unionville Cemetery, New Brighton, PA.
One thought on “James E. Black, Sr.”
Jim was a personal friend and mentor to me in my high school days. He was the Manager of the Little League team that I coached and moved me along towards a career in law enforcement and security.
Now after 51 years, I am getting to retire.
Geri and family, may God Bless and Peace be with you!!!