1940 – 2014

NORTH JAY — George Edward “Eddie” Black, 73, of North Jay, passed away at his home on Monday, March 24.

He was born in Livermore Falls on May 13, 1940, a son of Benjamin and Ruth (Diamond) Black of Fayette. He was educated in Livermore Falls schools, graduating in 1959.

Eddie met the one true love of his life, Juanita Wright, on Oct. 18, 1956. On July 8, 1961, they married and became one for life. Together, they raised their family in North Jay.

Eddie loved to hunt, fish and work with Ronnie Ridley at his garage. He worked at Bowen Bros. and Allen’s Garage for many years, before going on to work for the Livermore Falls Town Garage, retiring at the age of 64 in 2004, due to health problems.

For 51 years, Eddie was a member of the Jay Fire Department, driving Engine 1 for 15 years and helping to restore the Diamond Truck.

His hobbies included woodworking, tinkering and gardening. He loved a challenge, as it kept him thinking until he finally figured it out. At home, he loved NASCAR, puzzles, card games and barbecues with family.

Eddie is survived by his wife of nearly 53 years, Juanita Black, of North Jay; two daughters, Diana Starbird and her husband, David, of Farmington and Jayme Anthony and her husband, Michael, of North Jay; siblings, Ralph Black and his wife, Tess, and Robert Black and his wife, Wanda, all of Fayette; four grandsons, Benjamin and Alex Starbird of Farmington, LCP Michael Black of Camp Lejeune, N.C., and Zachary Black of North Jay; one very special great-grandson, Coleman Black; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; a sister, Maj. Gloria Black; and two sons, Ronald Edward and James Michael Black.

Eddie will be missed by all who had the good fortune of knowing him.

Words of condolence and tribute may be shared with Eddie’s family and friends on his tribute wall at www.wilesrc.com.