Willene Black

Willene McGeorge Black 

March 22, 1952 – April 30, 2025

Willene McGeorge Black, 73, of Pineville, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2025, after a courageous 17-month battle with cancer.

Born on March 22, 1952, in Pineville, KY, Willene was the beloved daughter of William Lewis and Magdalene Hopkins McGeorge. She was raised in her hometown and was a member of both the Church of God and New Heights Baptist Church. Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life.

Willene met the love of her life, Vernon Black, on a blind date arranged by mutual friends. They were married on August 8, 1969, in Tazewell, Tennessee. As Vernon served in the military, Willene devoted herself to caring for their growing family, following him to various postings across the country. Together, they raised three children: Steven Ray, Marsha Gail, and Shawn Vernon.

The family eventually settled in Lawton, Oklahoma, where they remained until Vernon’s passing in July 1982 due to cancer. After his death, Willene returned to Pineville with her children, where she dedicated herself to raising and providing for her family.

Willene served her community in many ways. She was a member of the Bell County Volunteer Fire Department, the Middlesboro-Bell County Rescue Squad, and worked as an election poll worker. She also served as an EMT with the Bell County Ambulance Service, a deputy jailer, and a security guard. Willene was a devoted band parent and was affectionately known as “Mom Black” by the band kids—a title she cherished deeply.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, her parents and grandparents, and her brother, William Michael McGeorge.

Willene is survived by her three children:

• Steven Black of Barbourville, KY

• Shawn Black and wife Cheryl of Middlesboro, KY

• Marsha Black of Winchester, KY

Her grandchildren:

• Jaime Mays of Paris, KY

• Anthony Mays and fiancée Michaelia Rose of Middlesboro, KY

• Claudia Black and fiancée Autumn Fetters of Middlesboro, KY

Her great-grandchildren:

• Chandler Mays and Alaric “Peanut” Mays, both of Middlesboro, KY

She is also survived by her beloved dog, Little Bit, and a host of extended family and friends who became like family and held a special place in her heart.

Willene will be interred at Pineville Cemetery next to her beloved husband. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, starting at noon at Sugar Run Trail, Middlesboro, KY. Guests are invited to bring a covered dish and their favorite stories to share in remembrance.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Willene’s memory. She was a proud supporter of veterans’ organizations and local animal shelters.

Willene will be remembered for her deep faith, her devotion to her family, and the warmth and kindness she extended to everyone she met. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and all who knew her.