James Black

James H. Black, age 74, passed into eternity on February 7, 2025. Jim served as an Army Sergeant Rank E5 in the Vietnam War from August 1970-April 1972. His Dad inspired him with the love of music when he purchased a home organ after which Jim started lessons as a young child. He later chose to attend Moody Bible Institute where he graduated with a diploma in Music Composition '72-'75. He then continued his studies at the American Conservatory of Music (Chicago), where he obtained a Bachelors '79, and a Masters '81, in Church Music/Organ. Jim had a great love for Music and used his degree to serve the Lord. He joined the staff at Ashburn Baptist Church as Organist/Pianist where he served with joy as a staff member from July 1975-April 2021. Through the years he also served as Choir Director (Children/Adult), Band and Orchestra Leader, and he created and led his vocal group, The Sounds of Praise. He then continued serving as Pianist/Accompanist from 2021 until his passing.

Jim was married for 38 years to Linda Black nee Easterhouse. He was a loving father to Caleb (Fatma) Black, Sarah (Elliot) Buroff, Aaron (Lauren) Black, Isaac (Sherine) Black, Ethan (Hannah) Black, Rebecca Black, Keren Black, Seth Black, and the late Rachel Black. He cherished his grandchildren Raelyn, Samuel, Elanor and Nathan; Andrew, Anthony, Aria, and Alexander; and Charlotte. He eagerly awaited a new grandchild due in July. He was the devoted son of the late David and Nora (nee O' Boyle) Black. Dear brother of David Black, John (Wanda) Black, Gerald (late Tracy) Black, Elizabeth (Ken) Geoffrion, and Kathleen (Bob) Harringer. Fond son-in-law of Raymond and Dorothy (nee Fagan) Easterhouse. Dear brother-in-law and uncle of many.

Jim was known for his faithfulness to God and his Family, his dedication to God's Word and Prayer, and his cheerful smile and calm demeanor. His presence will be dearly missed by those who loved him best.

The Visitation and Funeral will be held at Ashburn Baptist Church, 15401 S. Wolf Road, Orland Park, IL. The Visitation will be Friday, February 14, 2025 from 4-9 p.m. The Funeral Service will be Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. Interment Orland Memorial Park Cemetery, Orland Park, IL.

Memorials in Jim's honor can be made to Honor Flight Chicago, 9701 W Higgins Road, Suite 310
Rosemont, IL 60018-4703 CLICK HERE FOR ONLINE DONATION

Below is a photo tribute celebrating Jim's life.



Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400