David Keith Black

DAVID BLACK

JERSEYVILLE - David Keith Black, 71, passed away at 10:35 a.m., Monday, January 5, 2026 in the Emergency Room at Jersey Community Hospital.

He was born on August 29, 1954 in Litchfield, Illinois, one of three sons born to the late Aubrey and Myrtle Marie (Carriker) Black. David grew up in Raymond and graduated with the Class of 1972 from Carlinville High School. Shortly after high school, he proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, serving his country for four years prior to his honorable discharge.

Following his return home from military service, David continued his education at Blackburn College and later earned his Associate’s Degree from Lewis and Clark Community College. For the past 40 years, he made his home in Jerseyville, where he built a life rooted in hard work, loyalty, and deep connections to family and community.

It was in Jerseyville that David met the former Mary Helen Fry. The two were married on December 12, 1986, and shared many wonderful years together, creating a life filled with love, laughter, and meaningful memories. Mary preceded him in death on March 28, 2017, and David cherished her memory every day that followed.

David was employed with Madison Communications in Staunton, where he worked for 23 years installing cable networks throughout the region. He took great pride in his work and retired after a long and dedicated career.

Outside of work, David lived life with enthusiasm and purpose. He was an avid bicyclist who loved the open road, frequently embarking on week-long cycling excursions. Among his proudest accomplishments were his multiple rides with RAGBRAI, the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa, experiences that combined his love of cycling, adventure, and camaraderie. He also found joy in gardening, following sports, and faithfully cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals and the St. Louis Blues.

Though he had no children of his own, David was a devoted and deeply caring family man. He treasured time spent with his brothers and their families, especially the simple pleasures of coffee and donuts shared together. After marrying Mary, he wholeheartedly embraced her three children as his own, becoming a steady and loving presence in their lives. As the family grew to include grandchildren and great-grandchildren, David remained a constant source of support, kindness, and quiet strength.

He is survived by two brothers, Gerald Black of Raymond and John Black of Carlinville; three step-daughters, Lori (David) Haun of Kane, Lisa Alexander of Jerseyville, and Kris (Barry) Hauhe of Palm Harbor, Florida; nine step-grandchildren; numerous step-great-grandchildren; a host of nieces and nephews, and a good friend, Dana Kirkpatrick, all of whom he loved dearly.

Memorial Visitation will be held from 1 pm until time of memorial service at 2pm, Friday, January 16, 2026 at Crawford Funeral Home, 1308 State Highway 109, Jerseyville, Illinois 62052. Burial will immediately follow at Elsah Cemetery where David will be laid to rest alongside his wife, Mary. 

Memorials may be given to Riverbend Humane Society, where David adopted his loyal companion, Dino, who brought him great comfort and companionship.

Memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.crawfordfunerals.com

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