OBITUARY

Name:   Wilfred Filmore Black

From:  The Citizen Times, Asheville, North Carolina
Date:  Monday, May 28, 2007

Wilfred defined his life by his clear convictions, a strong sense of right and wrong, and by his love of God, country, community, friends and family. He valued hard work and thrifty, simple living. In his final years, he was blessed with many special friends and neighbors who provided help so he could continue to live at home until the final weeks of his life. Their support allowed him the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful mountain views from his garage while drinking his coffee and observing nature.

Farming, working with cattle, and sitting quietly to observe nature were great sources of pleasure. His goal was to be a good steward of the land and to leave things a little better than he found them. He was proud of and devoted to his mountain heritage, while possessing an incredible ability to remember family dates and history covering the last several generations.

Another great source of pleasure and pride were his four grandchildren, Lindsey Stack, Greg and Kim Black, and Mason Trivette. He spent many hours playing Uno, milk the mouse, mouse trap, and horse eating corn, at his kitchen table with his grandchildren.

Wilfred graduated from Flat Creek High School in 1944, and then from Cecil's Business College after his military service. He was a veteran of World War II and the Korean War, serving in the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force. His military service spanned more than five years, including two overseas tours totaling two and a half years. He received several awards and commendations for honorable service, including Bronze Stars for bravery.

He sold automobiles in this area for more than 30 years, and was co-owner of Superior Auto Mart with Earl Lytle and L. F. Buck Dillingham for several years. After retirement, he worked part time for a number of years with West Funeral Home in Weaverville. In both of these professions, he enjoyed helping others. He joined Flat Creek Baptist Church as a young man, where his membership remains.

His son, Phil Black and his wife, Irene, reside in Pickerington, Ohio; while his daughter, Janice Black and her husband, Paul Trivette, reside in Winston-Salem. His surviving sister and brothers include Mabel Oldham, of Asheville, William Bill Black, of Weaverville, Boyd Black, of Asheville, and Bobby Black, of Black Mountain.

He endured severe emphysema for the last five years. He wished to encourage everybody who smokes to stop now. His physician, Dr. David Troxler, provided exemplary care during his last years; while the staff at Asheville Specialty Hospital (LTAC) provided tremendous physical and emotional support in his last weeks.

The funeral will be held at 7 p.m. Monday in the chapel of West Funeral Home, with the Rev. Larry Coates officiating.

The family will receive friends from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., prior to the service at West Funeral Home, 17 Merrimon Ave., Weaverville.

Military graveside rites will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday in West Memorial Park, with rites conducted by Mars Hill VFW Post # 5483 Memorial Team.

Those desiring to make memorial donations are encouraged to consider Calvary Worship Center, P.O. Box 547, Marshall, NC 28753.