Burl Black Obituary

Burl Phillip Black, 70, of Mattoon, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 7, 2025 at 8:15 AM at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center in Mattoon. Cremation Rites have been accorded and Private Family Services will be held.
Burl was born on Sunday, February 13, 1955 in Bowling Green Township, Illinois, the son of Virgil Brent and Lovetta June (maiden name Beasley) Black. He was raised in the Cowden-Herrick community and attended Cowden Elementary School and Cowden High School, where he graduated with the Class of 1973. Burl enjoyed the outdoors and had many interests and hobbies including fishing, mushroom hunting, and gardening. He loved working on vehicles, including rebuilding motors and painting/body work. His children and grandchildren especially remember his cooking and baking and just gathering around the table for good food and times. Burl was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan to the end, and his family will forever remember his "tears of joy" and "biggest smile ever" when the Cubs beat the then Cleveland Indians in the 2016 World Series.
Throughout his life, Burl found his greatest joy in his roles as a father, grandfather, and all-around family man. He is lovingly remembered by his five children: Michael Black, of Cowden, along with his wife Amy; Troy L. Black, of Mattoon, and his wife Vanitty, whose shared strength and care meant so much to Burl; Kimberly Black, of Charleston, whose warmth and compassion remained a constant in his heart; Colton Black, of Mattoon, whose spirit reflected Burl's own; and Jessica Black, of Stewardson, whose determination honored her father's legacy. Burl was especially blessed with an abundance of grandchildren as well as many brothers and sisters and nephews and nieces, who will all miss him dearly.
Burl was preceded in death by his loving parents.