Barbara Lois Black passed away peacefully Nov. 14, 2025, with her husband Ken present, at Pruitt Health senior care, in St. Marys, GA. She was 89 and succumbed to complications from Alzheimer's disease. She was born April 29, 1936 to the late Rhoda Miller Hurley and Wilfred L. Hurley of Brockton, MA. She is predeceased by her parents and brother Joseph Hurley. Barbara is survived by her loving and devoted husband Kenneth F. Black, her two daughters Lisa Black-Sholudko, Laurie S. Moore and her husband Chris, son Mitchell K. Black and his wife Martha, Carlos Serrano F. an adopted son, twelve grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren.

Barbara was a people magnet, gifted with a warm and endearing smile that lit up her presence. She would mingle quietly and engage with those present adding value to conversations. Because she was well read, she could ask interesting questions and know when it was appropriate to be a good listener. Her demeaner was calm but her engagement drew respect. These qualities led to leadership positions wherever she was employed. They also speak about her success in marriage and raising children. Her husband Ken observed that she made him a better person through her examples,

Following graduation from Dean Academy, Barbara received an associate degree from Northeastern University and successfully earned her license as an MTCPH. As a quick learner, her ability to access rolling veins made her very popular at Quincy City Hospital, MA. After Barbara and Ken became empty nesters, Barbara decided to go back to work, initially in Maine and later at C Labs on Cape Cod where they had relocated. She became the Supervisor at the larger Hyannis location and later for all their sites. Her leadership while supervising a union staff led to a better work environment and relationship with the union. She retired in 2001 enjoying a rewarding retirement party, with more union staff than expected in attendance.

Barbara kept a beautiful home and with Ken hosted many social gatherings. Their children were regularly encouraged to host guests at their home. The dinner table was always filled with lively conversation and laughter. Barbara's boundless energy and flexibility were always on display.

Anne Scanlan, one of Barbara's bridesmaids, joined us here at Osprey along with her, and now our dear friend, Linda Fleming. We have spent almost all major holidays and birthdays together for the past 20-plus years. Barbara loved her golfing friends and, despite her steady debilitation, was truly touched when they hosted her last surprise birthday party.

The end-of-life compassion and loving care that Barbara received was provided by her husband Ken, Health Aides Margot Gant and later, Latisha Hall, plus all the Coastal Hospice staff. Her smile won their hearts. To all the neighbors and close friends who provided meals and services, our sincere appreciation.

Ken's last observation was to state that Barbara was and will always be the love of his life.

A celebration of life service will be held on November 29, 2025, at 11:00 am at the King of Peace Episcopal Church in Kingsland, GA.

Allison Memorial Chapel handled the prearrangements.