Lemuel Washington Black, Jr.

Lemuel Washington Black Jr., a devoted father, husband, and pillar of his community, passed away peacefully at his home on June 21, 2025, at the age of 76, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on January 20, 1949, in Clearfield to Lemuel and Bessie Black, Junior lived a life filled with love, laughter, and service to others. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Phyllis Curtis Black, whom he met in the fall of 1966 and married on May 13, 1967.  He was also preceded in death by his parents; brother Ivis Black; sisters Leona Jones and Pauline Jones; and granddaughter, Danielle Perry.

Survivors include his daughter Angela Black of Morehead; grandson Joshua Perry and wife Bria of Morehead; four great-grandchildren Gunnar Perry, Diesel Perry, Zelda Perry, and Meadow Perry; brother Wayne Black; and several nieces and nephews. Honorary family members James and Zona Hall and their son and Chris and Regina Gilliam and their children, as well as extended family, church family, and many friends, also claim him as their own.

Junior was a man of many passions, but his love for collecting antiques and attending estate sales was unmatched. He cherished the thrill of the hunt and the stories behind each unique find. His sense of humor was contagious, and he was known for being funny and goofy, always ready with a joke or a playful tease.

Junior's work history was marked by his determination and entrepreneurial spirit. He worked as an ironworker and farmer, owned and operated his own trucking company, and successfully ran Black's Construction company alongside his wife Phyllis for over 30 years. He also owned two fruit markets and a trailer park on Dry Creek. After a back injury in the late 1970s, Junior prayed for healing and a trade to provide for his family. He was blessed with the gift of building homes and went on to build their beautiful family home on Dry Creek Hill and many other notable homes in Rowan County.

But Junior's greatest legacy was his heart for serving others. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, offer guidance, and provide support to those in need. His generosity and kindness touched countless lives, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Junior was a member of Slab Camp Christian Church for over 62 years, serving as an ordained Deacon for 24 years. His faith was the foundation of his life, and he lived it out through his service to others.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 26, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Slab Camp Christian Church, 850 East Clack Mountain, Clearfield, KY 40313. On Friday, June 27, 2025, a celebration of Junior's life will be held at the church at 11 a.m. with Brother Jason Johnson and Brother Charles Moore officiating.

Burial will follow at the McClain-Arnold Cemetery with Gunnar Perry, Jack Pennington, Tanner Bowman, Timmy Black, James Earl Jones, James Hall Sr., and Chris Gilliam serving as pallbearers.

Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals, 400 Fraley Drive, Morehead, KY 40351 is caring for arrangements.  View video tribute or sign guestbook at www.northcuttandson.com 

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