Louise Leonard Black

Louise Leonard Black, age 84, passed away on March 30, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee. She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Charles Allen Black. Louise was born in Columbus, Georgia, to Alexander Lewis Leonard and Edna Augusta Allen on August 26, 1940. She graduated from Columbus High School in 1958 and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Auburn University in 1964, where she was an active member of the Delta Delta Delta Sorority.

After completing her studies and marrying, Louise began her career as an art teacher at Auburn High School while also pursuing her passion for painting. As she and Charles raised their family, she taught private and group art lessons to children and adults in the various communities where they lived. Louise later earned a master's degree in education from the University of Alabama, Birmingham. She went on to become a beloved art teacher at The Altamont School, Birmingham, Alabama where she taught students from grades 5 through 12 and after taught at Mountain Brook elementary and Mountain Brook high school. Throughout her more than 30-year career, she made a lasting impact on her students and was admired for her artistic talent, with her work being cherished by many.

Louise is survived by her two sons, C. Allen (Karin) Black and Kelly Benton (Caroline) Black; her daughter, Jennifer Black (Chad) Cunningham: six grandchildren, Charles A. Black III, Sydney Black (Daniel) Monnoyer, Kelly Benton Black II, Findlay Louise Black, Allison Louise Cunningham, and Charles Outlaw Cunningham, all of whom lovingly referred to her as "Mimi." She is also survived by her sister, Isabelle Jane (Jack) Warren of Columbus, GA, and brother, Alexander Lewis (Jennie) Leonard of Rome, GA.

Louise was a long-time member of St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Birmingham, Alabama. She will be remembered for her dedication and loving commitment to her family, her creativity, and the kindness she offered to those around her, including her family, friends, and students.

A private graveside service will be held at Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens in Nashville, TN.

 In lieu of flowers, please make donations to a charity of your choice.