Obituaries

Thomas Howard Black, 69, of Danville, PA, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at his home that he loved. He was born April 28, 1955, Danville, PA, the son of the late Sterling Paul and Anna Weigold Black

He graduated from Danville High School in 1973 where he participated in track. His early years were marked by his dedicated involvement in the Boy Scouts, where he achieved the honorable rank of Eagle Scout at the tender age of 13. He cherished his experiences including dancing with the Order of the Arrow at Camp Lavigne in Benton, PA, and formed lasting memories traveling to Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, where his love for adventure and the great outdoors flourished.

He was married for 38 years to the love of his life, Joanne “Jody” Cotner Black who survives. They were married on October 11, 1986.

Tom was employed as an estimator for Dent Plumbing, Heating and Cooling in Lightstreet, PA for 37 years, retiring on May 4, 2022. His work was not just a job; it was a reflection of his character, and the values instilled in him.

He was a member of Grove Presbyterian Church in Danville, PA.

An avid outdoorsman, Tom loved to hunt, ride four-wheelers and bicycling. Tom’s Dad and Uncle Mike taught him how to fish which resulted in him teaching his son and his nephews the same. He also enjoyed listening to rock and roll music, especially Neil Young. He thoroughly enjoyed taking relaxing drives, whether in his truck spotting deer or cruising in his sports cars. He was very fond of dogs, especially his two companions, Meeka and Bella who will dearly miss him.

He will be remembered as a fine gentleman for his kind, loving, caring heart and honesty.

Tom was a lifelong resident of his cherished hometown, where he touched the lives of many with his kindness and commitment to his community. He enjoyed volunteering at the Eos Therapeutic Riding Center

His children will remember their dad for all the positive encouragement that he gave them along the way in good and challenging times in their lives. His greatest enjoyment in his life was spending time with his family, all of whom he adored.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by one son, Kevin Sterling Black of Myrtle Beach, SC and one daughter, Emily Joanne Wagner and her husband Ben of Danville PA. He is also survived by three grandchildren: Brooks Thomas, Lane Sterling and Hayden Jane Wagner, all of Danville, PA. Also surviving are four sisters: Christine A. Rossnock of Murrells Inlet, SC; Carol B. Westwood and her husband Tim of Pittsburgh PA, Lois B. Baylor and her husband Robby of Williamsport PA and Sharon K. Black of West Deptford NJ and one brother-in-law, David D. Diehl as well as over 100 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by one sister, Kathy Black Diehl in 2014.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Tom’s Life to be held on Saturday, February 8, at 11:00 AM at Grove Presbyterian Church 376 Bloom Street his pastor, the Reverend Dr. Robert J. Andrews officiating. Friends will be received from 9:30 AM until 10:45 AM in the Great Room at the church.

The family will provide flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to Eos Therapeutic Riding Center 288 Dahl Road Bloomsburg PA 17815.

Arrangements are under the direction of Visneski Funeral Home, Inc 42 West Mahoning Street Danville PA 17821. www.visneski.com.