Black Featured in Hometown Highlight

This month’s featured Hometown Highlight is a Mansfield native, and Tiger fan through and through. Ronnie Black, 65, has been a fixture in the community and the school his entire life, and is working to ensure that both remain strong for the lifetime of his grandchildren.
Black was born to William and Marie Black. He and his 10 siblings grew up close, with a great work and life ethic. He met and married his wife of 45 and a half years, Wanda Pettus Black. Together the couple have two daughters, Kandis Howard and Angie Morris. Additionally, four grandchildren, Symber Weaver, Rylea Weaver, Layton Howard and Addison Howard.
He has served over two decades both in the city and in the school district. Black served on the Mansfield School Board for 10 years,  seven of those as President. He has been employed by the district as Maintenance Supervisor since 2009. Furthermore, he spent eight years on the Mansfield Volunteer Fire Department and two and a half years on the Mansfield City Council.

“I was born and raised here,” stated Black. “I care about our school and our town. I’m just a die hard Mansfield Tiger! My kids went to school here and now my grandkids. It’s important to me that both our town and school stay strong.”
Black proudly shared the success his grandchildren have seen as Tiger athletes. “Rylea was named an All-State volleyball player and Layton was named All-Conference in football.” His youngest grandchild, Addison, plays little league basketball. “I have been helping out with little league and attending all the home games.”
His life revolves around his Christian faith, and his family. Black attends church at Mansfield First Assembly of God. “God is important to me above all,” he added. He celebrates family, and hosts annual events such as the grandkid’s Christmas party and has a special dance for his children and grandchildren on their birthdays. “We dance to the tune of Ronnie Milsap’s “Happy, Happy Birthday Baby. We’ve been doing this a long time.”

Anyone who knows Black, is well aware of his passion and charisma. Whether its the laughter he brings through his surprise dress up character or the joy he brings through his traditional Christmas light display, Black has been a blessing to the community, school and to all who know him.
We are pleased to feature Black in our Hometown Highlight this month! If you know of a citizen who is deserving of this spotlight, please email us! We want to feature those ordinary citizens who are doing extraordinary things!