Reverend Richard J. Black was born in Sanford, Florida on November 9, 1941, to the late Willie Black Sr. and Evelyn Sands, where he lived until moving to New York City.

Following the death of his parents, Richard relocated to Jacksonville, Florida and was reared by his older sister, Betty Edwards (Richard). He graduated from Northwestern High School in 1960 where he was quarterback and captain of the high school football team. Richard was employed in the automobile industry for many years and later attended trade school to become a Switchman/Conductor for Southern Railroad System for over 30 years, until his retirement. Richard was also President of Southern Saint John Federal Credit Union.

Richard was joined in holy matrimony to the love of his life Gloria J. Black on September 2, 1960.

In 1970, Richard accepted Christ and was baptized at Abyssinia Missionary Baptist Church and served under the late Rev. B.L. Wynn. During his 40 plus years as a member of Abyssinia, Reverend Black served dutifully and faithfully in numerous roles until his transition. Under Rev. Wynn, Richard was ordained as a deacon and served as a Sunday School teacher and leader of District 19. Under the leadership of the late Dr. Tom E. Diamond's pastorship Richard served as Chairman of the Trustees' Board and as the new member class leader. He was ordained as a Minister in 1975 and served as Minister of Evangelism and Outreach, as well as Assistant Pastor to Dr. Tom Diamond. Under Dr. Euguene W. Diamond's leadership, Richard was ordained as a Reverend in 2021 and served as Assistant Pastor until his retirement in 2024 at which time he was named Assistant Pastor Emeritus.

Richard prioritized his family and loved his beloved wife Gloria, endlessly. He was a devoted father to his four beautiful daughters, and a loving, doting grandfather to his grandchildren and great grandchildren. In addition to his devotion to his family and dedication to his church, Richard served as a mentor to countless young men. A well-respected, Godly man to whom many looked upon as a father in the ministry. Richard never missed an opportunity to teach, pray, or speak life into all those he encountered.

Richard departed this earthly life on May 12, 2024, and was reunited in Heaven with his devoted wife Gloria of over 66 years, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his grandparents, Eva and James Braddock; parents, Willie Black Sr. and Evelyn Sands-Sparrow; siblings: Betty Edwards (Richard), Willie Black Jr., Doris Sparrow-Dye, Nathan Sparrow Jr., Gloria Sparrow-Barber, Yvonne Sparrow, and Evelyn Sparrow-Thorne; nephew, Kenneth Micheal Chapman; and niece, Shrlyndell Black.

He leaves to cherish his memories: daughters, Velvet Holman, Mignon Hammond (James), Nicole Wright (Derrick), and Sarah Ben David (Yehudah); a devoted nephew-son, Eric Sparrow (Priscilla); granddaughters: Takoya (Winston), Destinie (Devante), and Chayce; grandsons: Yochanan (Anna), Yoshiyahu (Gaelle), Noach, and Bryce; nine great-grandchildren; siblings, Shirley Moore (Norman); Bishop David Black (Kathi), Samual Black and Julia Stewart (Mack); sisters-in law: Betty Black and Minister Yvonne Baker; brothers-in-law: Earl Baker Sr.(Juanita) and Bishop Van Baker Sr. (Marchell); and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, and numerous devoted friends and church members.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant! You have been faithful over a few things I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your master." Mathew 25:21