Ottis Franklin Black

Published 7:42 pm Thursday, July 30, 2020

Ottis Franklin Black, 77, the last remaining Black Brother, of 604 Black Road, Washington, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family on Tuesday, July 28, 2020.

Frankie lived a life devoted to his family, to his many friends and to the land he so loved.

Frankie was born on May 1, 1943, in Beaufort County, to Mattie Winfield Woolard Black and Floyd Milburn Black, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also predeceased by brothers Gerald, Cedric, Wayland and Phil; sister-in-law, Peggy Woolard Black, and

brother-in-law, Ronnie Staton.

Frankie was a member of Beaver Dam Church of Christ, Bunyan Ruritan Club and was a graduate of Bath High School Class of 1961. As part of Black Brothers Farms, Frankie farmed his family land his entire life. He was widely respected for his vast knowledge of farming.

On Nov. 22, 1986, Frankie married Peggy Pendleton.

Survivors include his wife, Peggy Pendleton Black; his son, Taylor Black and wife Heather, of Washington; daughters, Anna Gay and husband Chris, of Rocky Mount, and Katy Swain and husband Aaron, of Greenville; grandchildren, Parker Gay, Colson Gay, Lorelai Swain, Addison Swain and Stella Katherine Swain; sisters-in-law, JoAnn Black, Barbara Black, Peggy E. Black and Polly Staton; brothers-in-law, Larry Pendleton and wife Tommie Lou, and George Pendleton and wife Cynthia; many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and -nephews, and lifelong friends.

The family would like to thank his special caregivers, David and Michelle Carpenter, for their support and love for the past seven years.

Frankie suffered a physically debilitating stroke seven years ago this month. Family and friends never failed him during those many years. His wife and children are grateful to each of them. Frankie’s life was one well lived. So many feel a deep connection to him. Those ties transcend physical death. “Blest be the ties that bind.”

Services for Frankie were held Friday, July 31, 2020. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be directed to Beaver Dam Church of Christ, Bunyan Ruritan Club, Bunyan Fire Department or Broad Creek EMS.