Israel Black, Sr. was born in Manning South Carolina on April 12, 1927 to the late Jude and Susie Mae Black Nelson. He departed this life on May 19, 2006 after a lengthy illness. Israel received his formal eduction through the Manning Public School System of Manning , South Carolina. He was a member of the Tawcaw Baptist Church Summerton, South Carolina where he accepted Jesus the Christ at an early age. On August 5, 1945, Israel was united in Holy Matrimony to his childhood sweetheart, the former Beulah McFadden. His loving wife honored her martial vows of in sickness, would take a leave from her employer to care for him and would be a constant source of spiritual and emotional strength as his health declined. This union was blessed with two sons, Israel, Jr., Mazilona Tony and one daughter, Sharon Theresa. Israel migrated to Baltimore in 1946 seeking a better life for his young wife and family. He found employment at the Continental Can Company as an operator. He retired from the Continental Can Company after 38 years of faithful service. When not working and upon his retirement, Israel loved to travel. For fun, Israel played poker and cards with his friends. In declining health, he still managed to go to Dover Downs with the assistance of his son, Tony, who would drive him to Delaware so he could play the slots. Israel loved to tinker around the house but his favorite room was the kitchen. He loved to make market and considered himself a gourmet cook. Israel took pride in his family and spent valuable time with them until his health began to fail. He was loved and cherished by his grandchildren. He considered each one his favorite as he doted out grandfatherly advice. He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife, Beluah Black; two sons, Israel Black, Jr. Ralfiella of Harford, Conn. and Mazolina Tony Crystal; daughter, Sharon Theresa Kevin Glover; three grandsons, Kevin Glover, Eric Black, and Jamal Tony Black; four granddaughters, Yolanda Black and Jamilla Black of Hartford, Conn., Toni Marie Black, and Trenae ''Squeaky'' Glover; two step-granddaughters, Jackie and Tina Medina; seven great-grandchildren and his little Chubby Fingers; great-grandson, Kahlil Glover; five sisters, Gloria Bradley, Mary Parker, Susie Smith, Jesteen Nelson all of Philadelphia, Pa. and Gladys Brailsford; two brothers, Harry Black and Jimmie Nelson; and a host of other family and friends.