David Keith Black, 71, died at 10:35 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, in the Emergency Room at Jersey Community Hospital.
A memorial service was held on Friday, Jan. 16, at Crawford Funeral Home, located at 1308 State Highway 109 in Jerseyville. Burial followed at Elsah Cemetery, where Mr. Black was laid to rest alongside his wife, Mary.
Mr. Black was born on Aug. 29, 1954, in Litchfield, one of three sons born to the late Aubrey and Myrtle Marie (Carriker) Black. He grew up in Raymond and graduated with the class of 1972 from Carlinville High School. Shortly after high school, he proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, serving his country for four years prior to his honorable discharge.
Following his return home from military service, he continued his education at Blackburn College and later earned his associate degree from Lewis and Clark Community College. For the past 40 years, he made his home in Jerseyville, where he built a life rooted in hard work, loyalty and deep connections to family and community.
It was in Jerseyville that Mr. Black met the former Mary Helen Fry. The two were married on Dec. 12, 1986 and shared many wonderful years together, creating a life filled with love, laughter and meaningful memories. She preceded him in death on March 28, 2017 and he cherished her memory every day that followed.
He was employed with Madison Communications in Staunton, where he worked for 23 years installing cable networks throughout the region. He took great pride in his work and retired after a long and dedicated career.
Outside of work, Mr. Black lived with enthusiasm and purpose. He was an avid bicyclist who loved the open road, frequently embarking on week-long cycling excursions. Among his proudest accomplishments were his multiple rides with RAGBRAI, the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa, experiences that combined his love of cycling, adventure and camaraderie. He also found joy in gardening, following sports and faithfully cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals and the St. Louis Blues.
Though he had no children of his own, he was a devoted and deeply caring family man. He treasured time spent with his brothers and their families, especially the simple pleasures of coffee and donuts shared together. After marrying Mrs. Black, he wholeheartedly embraced her three children as his own, becoming a steady and loving presence in their lives. As the family grew to include grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he remained a constant source of support, kindness and quiet strength.
Mr. Black is survived by two brothers, Gerald Black of Raymond and John Black of Carlinville; step-daughters, Lori (David) Haun of Kane, Lisa Alexander of Jerseyville and Kris (Barry) Hauhe of Palm Harbor, FL; nine step-grandchildren; numerous step-great-grandchildren; a host of nieces and nephews; and good friend, Dana Kirkpatrick, all of whom he loved dearly.
Memorials may be given to Riverbend Humane Society, where Mr. Black adopted his loyal companion, Dino, who brought him great comfort and companionship.
Condolences may be left by visiting www.crawfordfunerals.com.
