Obituary of James Austin Black

James Austin Black passed away March 10, 2023 at Waldo County General Hospital.  Jim was born on August 13, 1944 in Ellsworth to Dr. Russell and Dorothea (Goodwin) Black.  He was the third of four sons.  After graduating from Crosby High School in 1962, Jim attended Bob Jones University, and then Husson University.  Upon completion, Jim joined the Army and was stationed at Fort Knox Kentucky, Fort Benjamin Harrison Indiana, as well as Ft. Sill Oklahoma.  After completing his military service, Jim moved back to Maine, first to Fairfield, then finally back to his beloved Belfast where he would proudly live for the rest of his life.  In 1972, Jim purchased Hammond Press which was renamed The J.A. Black Company.  He was well known through his business relationships as well as his civic engagements.  Jim was a member of many committees over the years, most notably the Belfast Harbor Committee, the Comprehensive Plan Committee and The Troy Howard Middle School Building Committee.  Jim was a Master Mason, and a member of Anah Temple Shrine, The Belfast Rotary Club, and The Belfast Lions’s Club for many years.  He felt special love and devotion to Veteran causes and was a proud member and servant of the American Legion Post #43 in Belfast.  Jim was known by many as a civic minded citizen who believed in giving back to the community.  Jim loved to spend time with his family and friends, reminiscing and telling stories.  He had a joke for every occasion.  While Jim was larger than life, he quietly showed support for friends in need and believed in serving his community.

Jim will be missed dearly by his children, Rick Black of Manchester, NH; Angela Garard of Indianapolis; Jennifer (Jake) Parrott of Indianapolis.  Grandchildren:  Brooke Pinkham of Columbus, Ohio; Zach Ziobron of West Virginia; Nicholas (Morgan) Bailey of Willow Spring, North Carolina; Vincent Garard of Indianapolis; Alexander Parrott of Indianapolis; and great-grandchildren:  Mady Pinkham of Belmont; Macy O’Brien of Belfast; his youngest brother, David (Mary) Black; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Phillip and Bruce, and beloved daughter Judith Ann.

Jim’s favorite place to be was on Penobscot Bay, and a summer celebration of life will honor his wishes.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the American Legion Post #43, 143 Church Street, Belfast, ME 04915; or the Belfast Rotary Club, 20 Northport Avenue, Belfast, ME 04915.