Lawrence Joseph Black

Black, Lawrence Joseph

It is with great sadness that the family of retired Sergeant Joe Black announce his passing on June 7, 2023, at the Veteran’s Health Unit, Fredericton. Born in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia on August 10, 1932, he was the son of the late Francis and Sadie (Wall) Black.

He is survived by his daughter Jo Ellen Sanford (Roland Belliveau), Lincoln NB, and son Brian Black (Catherine), Comox, BC, son-in-law Bill McDonald, his 8 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren, as well as many extended family members including siblings Margaret Sloat, John (Bonnie), Anne Kaiser (Tom), Mary Paula Powers (Jimmy) and Patricia Castaldini, brother-in-law Roger (Carole) Gilbert, Richard Gagne and sister-in-law June Schreiber.

He was pre-deceased by his wife of 54 years, Grace, daughter Karen McDonald, son-in-law Mark Sanford, brothers, Donald, James, Steve, Francis, and Allister; Sisters, Lillian Civita, Patricia Black and Kathleen Gagne. and brother-in-law’s Fred Schreiber and Harold Sloat.

Joe was a proud veteran of the Korean War and a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 55. He honourably served his country with pride in the Canadian Armed Forces for 31 years. His numerous postings included Halifax, Petawawa, Germany, Ottawa, Calgary, and Gagetown. Once he retired in 1982, he and his late wife Grace had time to become very active in their community of Hoyt, NB.  This became their final home and they loved the “Farm” and the community.  Participating in events in the community occupied most of their time as well as operating Douglas Valley Christmas Tree U-pick at the “Land” in nearby Welsford.  Joe devoted most of his time to participating in whatever Grace (his sergeant-major) volunteered him for, including Meals on Wheels, Seniors Groups, and the Antique Car Club.  He proudly participated in the Liberal party and loved meeting many dignitaries.  

The family wishes to thank the caring and compassionate staff of the Veterans Health Unit for their support and dedication. They went above and beyond, in making his final years of life very pleasant. 

There will be no Visitation and the Funeral Service celebrating Joe's life will be private.  He will be remembered for his service, dedication to his family, ability to listen, expertise at cribbage and humorous expressions.   As Joe would lovingly say, “love is a misunderstanding between two fools”, everyone needs a hug and of course a double-double of coffee!

For those who wish, donation in Joe’s memory can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Alzheimer’s Society of NB or The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #55.

Arrangements are in the professional care of Sunbury Funeral Home, 5407 Route 101,  Central Blissville, NB (506)368-2413

Condolences may be expressed at sunburyfuneralhome.com