Melbourne Leon Black, of Perry Park, KY, was reunited with his Lord and Savior on Sunday July 13, 2025 after 93 years on Earth. Born on May 1, 1932, in Boone County, KY he was the son of the late Charles Black and Helen Hodges Black.

A proud United States Army veteran of the Korean War, Mel served his country dutifully. He was also a Mason. Mel was a deeply faithful Christian but one who never pushed his beliefs on others. He was a longtime member of Squiresville Baptist Church. In his younger years, he enjoyed attending car races. Throughout his life, he also enjoyed fishing. Mel was devoted to his work at Greater Cincinnati International Airport. On their second date, while plane-spotting at the CVG Aircraft Viewing Area, Mel proposed to Eda Lou Hall. Initially astonished, Eda accepted. She and Mel began their life and family together.

After 27 years as the maintenance supervisor for CVG, Mel retired. Although through his profession he was constantly surrounded by the hubbub of travel, he himself enjoyed the simple pleasures of puttering at home, sitting on the front porch, feeding the deer while drinking a cup of coffee. Uncomplicated and quiet, Mel was a dedicated father and grandfather. He will be missed very much but also lovingly remembered always.

Mel was the dear dad of Tamara Arnold and Karen Kelley as well as treasured “Poppy” to five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.  Mel was welcomed into Heaven by his wife Eda Black; his son Steven Black; his parents and his sisters Connie Clinkenbeard, Betty Chipman and Gail Roberts as well as brothers Carl Black and Denver Black.

All services will be held at Chambers & Grubbs Funeral Home, 8461 Dixie Hwy, Florence, KY, 41042. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another’s company, and honor the legacy Mel leaves behind on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, from 10:00 AM until shortly before the funeral service at 12:00 PM.  Directly following the funeral, Mel will be laid to rest at Big Bone Baptist Cemetery, Union, KY 41091.

Memorial donations in Mel’s honor may be made in person at services or mailed directly to Squiresville Baptist Church, PO Box 102 Perry Park, KY 40363-0102.