of Conway, AR
June 30, 1951 - June 25, 2023
Willie Ray Black, 71, of Conway was born on June 30, 1951 to the late Walter Sherman Black and the late Pauline Zetaw (Dempsey) Black in Clinton, Arkansas and passed from this life on June 25, 2023 in Conway. He spent a number of his growing up years living in the Burnt Ridge Community. His parents later moved to Scotland where he graduated high school in 1969.
Willie went through several illnesses in the early part of his life, losing a kidney by the time he was a year old. What he went through planted a desire in him to help others. Upon graduating high school, he went to nursing school. Willie tended to the needs of countless people as he faithfully served the nursing profession for 52 years. He was witty, caring, helpful and generous. Willie was always sensitive to the needs of others.
Those left to cherish his memory are his fiance, Margurite Russaw of Conway; two sisters; Emma May Swofford of Shirley, Norma Faye Beaubouef of Harrison; an aunt, Ruby Black of Cleveland; an uncle, Roy Dean Dempsey and wife, Barbara of Clinton; seven nieces and nephews; numerous great nieces and nephews; many cousins; a long-time friend of 62 years, Ronnie Jackson, with whom he graduated high school; other friends; many relatives and co-workers.
Visitation will begin at noon on June 29, 2023 in the Chapel of Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Clinton. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 pm at the funeral home. Interment will be at Foster Cemetery in Scotland, Arkansas.
To express online condolences please visit www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/clinton.
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15 Condolence(s)
Bonnie Tietjen
Saturday, August 19, 2023
I have known Willie since he was a baby and he was one of the nurses at the hospital in Clinton when I had my fourth baby on Nov 3, 1971...He was so kind and took such good care of my baby boy while I was there and I have thought of him so often over these last almost 52 years and so sad to hear of his passing. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Love and Prayers,
Bonnie Tietjen (Johnson)
Clearmont, Wyoming
Karen Redding
Saturday, July 1, 2023
My condolences to the family. RIP Willie.
Bridgette Earls
Friday, June 30, 2023
My deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers to Willies family and loved ones. Willie was a kindhearted man and I considered him a friend . I’m very grateful to have known him.
Teresa Mason
Thursday, June 29, 2023
Deepest condolences to Willie’s loved ones. He was a kind and compassionate man, who helped everyone, was endlessly patient and effortlessly generous. I am glad I got to meet and work with him. I am so sorry for your loss.
James W. Cullum
Thursday, June 29, 2023
Until we meet again, my friend. We shared stories few others ever heard. You provided caring service for many God placed in your charge. I know your reward will be great!
Shirley Tinsley
Wednesday, June 28, 2023
So sorry to hear of the passing of Sweet Willie. We worked together years ago and just lost contact after I moved back to South Arkansas. I have thought of him often. He was a wonderful person. Prayers for peace and comfort to friends and family.
Karla smith Elliott
Wednesday, June 28, 2023
I'm sorry to hear about Willie, he was so nice, and I will miss him on Face Book. Prayers and love to his family and everyone that knew him,
Marcella Stewart
Wednesday, June 28, 2023
Mr willie was a very caring person praying for his family and friends
Tommy Jackson
Tuesday, June 27, 2023
Sharon and I send our love and prayers. Willie was a fine man. We enjoyed talking music with him.
Tommy and Sharon Jackson
Brenda Stafford
Tuesday, June 27, 2023
Thank you, Willie, for being such a kind friend. You will be greatly missed.
Ben G. Hunt, Paul, Candace and Ben Smith
Tuesday, June 27, 2023
We are so sorry for your loss. Thought the world of Willie and enjoyed visiting with him. He sent a Christmas card every year. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Bo and Terri
Tuesday, June 27, 2023
Marguerite,
We are heartbroken over Willie's passing. He was such a kind and gentle soul and will be missed greatly. Our prayers are with you now and in the future. Much Love
Donna Ann Tester Martin
Tuesday, June 27, 2023
I remember my mom and dad spending time with Willie. A dear sweet and funny man.
Wendy
Monday, June 26, 2023
Willie was a caring sweet friend to so many people as he would always stop to see how I was doing. It was a pleasure working with him. My prayers to his many loved ones and comfort in the days that follow.
Tracy Cooley
Monday, June 26, 2023
So sorry to hear of Mr. Black’s passing. He was such a kind man. Prayers to all of the family.