Orville Wayne Black

Orville “Wayne” Black, age 66, of Mason, Ohio, passed away on March 14, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family. Wayne was born on March 23, 1959, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Sterlie and Ann Black.

Wayne was a dedicated and hardworking man who spent 46 years with General Tool Company. Over nearly five decades, he built not only a career but lasting friendships with those who worked alongside him. His strong work ethic and steady reliability earned him the respect of everyone who knew him.

Wayne proudly served his country in the United States Army Reserves from 1978 to 1993. His service reflected the same quiet sense of duty and loyalty that defined the rest of his life.

More than anything, Wayne was a loving husband and devoted father and grandfather. He shared a deep and enduring bond with his wife, Violet, with whom he spent 45 years building a life filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. The two were rarely far apart, whether they were simply enjoying time together or heading out on the open road.

Wayne had a passion for riding and upgrading his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, and many of his favorite memories were made traveling and exploring alongside Violet. Their partnership was one built on loyalty, friendship, and a love that only grew stronger through the years.

Those who knew Wayne understood that while he sometimes carried a tough, steel-like exterior, beneath it was a heart of gold. He was the kind of man who would give the shirt off his back to help someone in need. His strength, generosity, and quiet kindness made a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path.

Wayne is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Violet Black; his daughters Jessica Kerns (Elijah) and Linda Smith (Michael); his grandchildren William Wood, Joshua Wood, Kai Kerns, Kaylee Kerns, Levi Kerns, Madison Kerns, Aron Sullivan, Brode Sullivan, Cayden O'Sullivan, Thor Audiss; and eight great-grandchildren who will continue to carry his memory forward. He is also survived by his siblings; Lawrence Hacker, Kathy Gephart, Ron Hacker, Donna Randall, Judy Black-Hawes, Tami Shelton, Jeannie Gartin, and Danny Black.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sterlie and Ann Black; his sister Johnna Lefevers; and his beloved son Sami Sullivan.

Wayne will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, his love for the open road, and the quiet generosity that defined the man he was. Though he may no longer walk beside us, the love he gave so freely will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.