Charles Allen Black, Sr.

Charles Allen Black, Sr. passed away on February 2, 2024, in Nashville, TN. Born on October 3, 1938, in York, Alabama, he grew up in Fort Payne, Alabama. Charles led a beautiful life filled with creativity, humor, and a deep love for his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Louise Leonard Black; children, C. Allen (Karin) Black, Jr., Kelly B. (Caroline) Black and Jennifer (Chad) Cunningham; grandchildren, Charles Allen Black, III., Sydney Weston Black, Kelly Benton Black, II., Findlay Louise Black, Allison Louise Cunningham, and Charles Outlaw Cunningham.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Ulay Jay Black and Ruth Kellett Black; his brothers, Jay (Elaine) Black and Brian Black; and his sisters, Kathleen (Ed) Rice, Marion (Clay) Hurley, and Nina (Lovick) Suddath.

Charles graduated from Fort Payne High School in 1957 and graduated from Auburn University in 1962, with a BFA in Advertising and Design. At age 17, he enlisted in the United States National Guard and continued his service in the National Reserves, serving a total of 11 years. Charles began his career as a graphic artist with the Auburn Extension Service and became a longtime advisor to the Auburn University Art Department. Charles’ career in advertising spanned nearly 40 years as a Creative Director, Advertising Executive, and as principle of his own Advertising Agency, Black Ink in Birmingham, AL.

Charles’ passion for art was evident all around him. He amassed a vast art library, and became an avid art collector, focusing especially on “Old Master” paintings. After retiring he became a certified Art Appraiser by the Appraisers Association of America. But, above all, his creativity and love for drawing and painting was his true gift as he created an extensive body of original work in his spare time throughout his life.

There will be a Graveside Service Thursday February 8, 2024, at 12:30 pm and a gathering to follow, both held at Harpeth Hills Funeral Home, Memory Gardens located at 9090 Highway 100, Nashville, TN 37221.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Mind What Matters www.wearemindwhatmatters.org or Nashville Rescue Mission www.nashvillerescuemission.org.