Adrian Black Sr.

In the early morning of July 30, 2026, our Lord and Savior whispered, “Well done, good and faithful servant, thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of the Lord”. Adrian Black (also known as Terry) was an outstanding loveable husband, a wonderful son, a great father, exceptional grandfather, special brother, hilarious uncle, beloved relative and dependable friend. He was born January 2, 1958, the 4th child, out of 5. His mother, Bettie Jean Williams, called him “Tee”. His late father, Reginald Black and late stepfather Bernard Williams were also very important in his life. Adrian loved the Lord and had a heart to serve and witness, beginning at an early age. His early spiritual teachings began while being a member at St. Mark Deliverance Center, serving under Apostle Marion Jones for many years even as an adult. He joined and fellowshipped with other churches during his adult life and always had a personal relationship with the Lord. Adrian always had a desire to “Be All That He Could Be”. After attending Portsmouth Public schools, he joined the U.S. Army in 1978 and was a proud honorably discharged veteran (Thank You for Your Service). He worked for many years at Norfolk Naval Shipyard as a welder. He was selected on numerous occasions to travel with the shipyard’s Temporary Duty “Tiger Team” to Italy twice, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii, and submarine base Groton, Connecticut. He also worked at Norfolk Southern Railroad as a welder, and retired from Hampton Veterans Affairs as a maintenance tech. He learned many skills throughout his career (construction, welding, CDL, maintenance, leadership) which eventually, blessed and led him to become an entrepreneur for many years. His Complete Home Improvement company gave him an opportunity to design, build, renovate properties, assist the community, and be a role model. Family was always paramount for Adrian, more important than anything else. His memory will always be in the hearts of his family; he left a great legacy. Of course, his wife Clara (Bouq, Baby) was his priority. They shared over 31 years (August 12th) of marriage, which allowed them to build a beautiful life together. His pride and joy were to always treat her special, like a QUEEN (MISSION ACCOMPLISHED). He enjoyed being in touch with his 3 sons: Terrence, Adrian Jr. (AJ), and Terry, to discuss the situations in life, family, the future and sports. As a grandfather (Papa), his heart was filled with joy and happiness. He wanted to make a difference in their lives and enjoyed spending time with them, going to the park, Chuck E. Cheese’s, bowling, movies, etc. He took every opportunity to express his love for family: celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions. It has only been 2 months since his dear, sweet mother (Bettie Jean Williams) went to be with the Lord and he was preceded in death by his brothers Christopher Black and Michael Williams. In addition to his wife Clara, 3 sons Terrence (Christina), Adrian Jr. (Khadijah), Terry (Deor), others cherishing his memory includes four sisters: Regina Ratcliff (Paul), Veronica Rawling (Steve), Wanda Flowers, and Bernadette Huggins; two brothers: Reginal Black Jr. (Margie), Rodney Black; sister in law: Ernestine Tyler (Clyde), brother in law: Michael Mears, loveable grandchildren (he was excited for a new addition coming in November), uncles, aunt, a host of very SPECIAL nieces and nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. Adrian, your family will ALWAYS LOVE YOU and never forget the imprint that you left with us!! Because you were a contractor, it is a permanent structure. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. Henceforth, there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but unto ALL of them also that love His appearing. (II Timothy 4:7-8)

Adrian Black Sr.

January 2, 1958 - July 30, 2026