Edwin Freeman Black

October 25, 1945 – March 25, 2025

Edwin Freeman Black, a lifelong resident of Middleborough, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his beloved family, on March 25, 2025, at the age of 79. Born on October 25, 1945, in Middleborough, Ed built a life filled with love, dedication, and kindness.

A devoted family man, Ed was known for his unwavering loyalty to those he loved. He carried a deep sense of community, always offering a helping hand to friends and neighbors. His warm presence, wisdom, and generous spirit left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Ed was the beloved husband of Susan (Burns) Black, with whom he shared 57 years of marriage. Together, they built a strong and loving family. He is survived by his three daughters: Mary Black Perkins and her husband, Tom Perkins, of Middleborough; April (Black) Gorey and her husband, Mark Gorey, of Middleborough; and Wendy (Black) Zaleski and her husband, Mike Zaleski, of East Bridgewater. He was a cherished grandfather to Michael Black and his partner, Max Gordon, of Malden, and Cole Perkins, of Middleborough. Ed is also survived by his sister, Joanne Banks, of Plymouth, and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his four sisters, Eleanor Combra, Shirley Marshall, Patricia Stoddard, and Ginny Alderson, as well as his two brothers, Al Ruprecht and Roland Ruprecht. Ed was the son of the late Freeman and Dorothy (Hebert) Black.  

Edwin honorably served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. Following his service, he worked as a Foreman for the Middleborough Department of Public Works (DPW) for 20 years, retiring in 2007. Even in retirement, he remained active, finding joy in working at Camp Avoda, where he enjoyed the camaraderie and sense of purpose it provided.

A lifelong baseball enthusiast, Ed proudly earned the title of Middleborough Little League Home Run Champion in 1957. His love for the sport continued throughout his life, and in retirement, he could often be found at the baseball field, cheering on his grandson. He also enjoyed traveling, woodworking, local fishing, and cherished fishing trips on the Androscoggin River in Maine with his nephew, Shawn.

A man of strong faith, Ed was deeply devoted to his church and lived his life guided by kindness, integrity, and generosity. His dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, and his warm heart will always be remembered.

Visiting hours are Sunday, March 30, 2025 from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. in the O’Neill Funeral Home, 59 Peirce Street (corner of School Street) Middleborough. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Sacred Heart Church in Middleborough on Monday, March 31, 2025 at 10 a.m. Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate his life.

Interment will follow in Cedar Knoll Cemetery, 175 Staples Street, East Taunton.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Ed to the Sacred Heart Food Pantry, Society of St. Vincent de Paul, PO Box 1381, Middleboro, MA 02346. 

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