January 21, 1946 - September 5, 2023 - George Randall Black known as "Randy", 77, of Leesburg, FL, passed away on September 5, 2023, under the care of Cornerstone Hospice.
Randy was born in Statesboro, GA, on January 21, 1946, to his loving parents; Bobby and Benita (Anderson) Black.
Randy grew up in Georgia, was of the Baptist faith and came from an adoring family. Randy was a member of Statesboro High School Class of 1964. After attending Georgia Southern University for three years Randy felt led to pause his education to enlist in the Army to serve and protect our country. While in the Army, he rose to the rank of Captain and was a pilot in a fixed wing aircraft and also a helicopter pilot, tasked in part with rescuing many soldiers in Vietnam combat zones. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his heroic service. Following his active service, he remained dedicated to serve in the US Army Reserves and later in the Georgia Air National Guard as a helicopter pilot. Randy also worked as a successful manager in the propane industry in Georgia and Louisiana for many years before his retirement.
Later in life, he met his wife, Clara. Clara fell for his Southern drawl and after their first date in The Villages, FL, the couple fell in love. Randy moved to Leesburg following his marriage to Clara on June 20, 2010.
After his move to Central Florida with Clara, Randy became a member of the Italian American Club in The Plantation Community, there he held many friendships among his community. Randy also enjoyed spending his time hunting and fishing and being a father to his beloved daughters. Randy will be missed by many and remembered fondly for his kind heart and wonderful sense of humor.
Randy is survived by his adoring wife of 13 years; Clara Horaj Black, his two daughters: Stephanie and her fiance, Alberto Molina, of Maui, HI, and Stacey Johnson of Flowerly Branch, GA. As well as a sister; Jan Tankersley and her husband, Hughie, and a precious grandson; Caelan.
Randy is predeceased by his parents and a brother, Rickey.
A funeral service will be held in Statesboro in the chapel of Deal’s Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 13, 2023. Visitation will be at 2:00 pm with the funeral at 3:00 followed by interment in the Brooklet Cemetery. Pastor Roland Barnes will conduct the service.
Page-Theus Funeral Home and Crematory in Florida and Deal Funeral Directors in Statesboro are handling the arrangements.
