Delbert Ray Black

Delbert Ray Black, 85, of St. Charles, passed away peacefully at his home after a short battle with stomach cancer on Tuesday, November 7, 2023. He was born March 20, 1938 to John and Arcola Trussell Black in St. Charles, Arkansas.

Delbert was an avid fisherman and loved the White River, where he grew up most of his life. He was a commercial fisherman for years and loved to raise barrel nets and trotlines. He got the nickname 'Ring Eye' back in the day when he was an avid coon hunter and trapper. Many of his friends still called him that and knew exactly who you were talking about if you said Ring Eye. He also loved to squirrel hunt and did so until he was unable to walk long distances. He was a true outdoorsman and loved being outdoors at all times. He couldn't just sit still in the house. He was very kind, loving, and friendly to all he knew.

Delbert is survived by a son, Thomas Ray Black; granddaughter, Chyna Sebree; great-granddaughter, Ava Sebree; and a special niece he helped raise, Ashley Fox Reed (Jeremy); along with a host of other special friends whom he adored.

He was preceded in death by his parents John and Arcola Black; his wife, Nelli Mae Carver Black; his baby sister, Velma Black; sister, Dorthy Jean Matlock; brother, Thomas Black; niece, Charlotte Roush; daughter in law, Robin Black; and his best friend, Shelby Adams, Sr.

Funeral services were November 12 at Essex Funeral Home with burial in St. Charles Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to St. Charles Cemetery Association c/o Delbert Black PO Box 93 St. Charles, AR 72140. www.essexfuneralhome.com