Stephen grew up in the San Joaquin Valley and graduated from Delano High School in 1961. At 17 years old, he enlisted in the Army and served 22 years for his country as a Counterintelligence Agent, retiring as a Master Sergeant in 1983 having earned 11 service medals and awards. Stephen used his military training to pursue a 20 plus year career at Lockheed Martin in Sunnyvale, CA.
In 2004 he moved back to San Joaquin Valley, what he affectionately referred to as “God’s Country”. Stephen loved to travel and never missed an opportunity to “Be on The Road Again.” He had a profound love for his family, his friends, and his country.
Stephen is survived by his partner, Barbara Ballinger; by his children, Stephen Black Jr., his wife Jennifer, and granddaughter Bradyn; Bryan Black, and grandson Connor; Jessica Rodriguez, her husband Juan, and grandpup Jarvis. He was a remarkable man, son, brother, partner, father, grandfather, and friend who will be tremendously missed.
Stephen was preceded in death by his father and mother, Bill and Dovie, and his sister, Susan Black.
A celebration of life for Stephen will be held Saturday, January 28, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM at North Kern DIstrict Cemetery, 627 Austin St., Delano, CA 93215.
Serving as pallbearers are Stephen Black Jr., Bryan Black, Jessica Rodriguez, Juan Rodriguez, Bradyn Black and Connor VanDusen.
In lieu of flowers the family is asking donations be made in memory of Stephen Black to the Central Valley Honor Flight at, https://cvhonorflight.org/donate-now/
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.delanomortuary.com for the Black family. Services entrusted to Funeraria Del Angel Delano, a Dignity Memorial provider.
