Thomas Greer Black

October 3, 1943 – June 13, 2026

Thomas “Tommy” Greer Black, age 82, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026.

Born on October 3, 1943, to Lonnie Greer and Ruby Howell Black, Tommy lived a life devoted to faith, family, music, education, and service. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, educator, musician, craftsman, and friend whose influence will continue to bless generations.

Tommy graduated from Samford University, where he was a proud member of the A Cappella Choir. Music was one of the great passions of his life and shaped both his career and his service to others. He served as a school choral director and later as a middle school and high school counselor, investing in the lives of young people with wisdom, compassion, and encouragement. Whether in the choir room or the counselor’s office, he had a gift for helping others discover their potential and pursue their dreams.

As a young man, Tommy learned the art of piano rebuilding and restoration from a master craftsman; he developed a skill that would remain an important part of his life. His dedication to excellence led him to become a Registered Piano Technician through the Piano Technicians Guild, a distinction earned by demonstrating the highest standards of technical knowledge and craftsmanship. He found great joy in helping bring beautiful music to life through the instruments he restored, tuned, and maintained.

Tommy was deeply devoted to the church and to sacred music. Through choir leadership, worship, and faithful service, he enriched the lives of many and shared his love of God through music. He faithfully taught adult Sunday School classes for many years and helped lead youth, leaving a lasting impact on generations of church members. His faith guided the way he lived, served, and cared for others.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Greer and Ruby Black, and his brother, Howell Black.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Bonnie Black; his sister, Diane Hampton; his children: Leah Littrell of California, Clayton Black of California, and Dr. Wes Black (Katie) of Decatur, Alabama; and his cherished grandchildren: Emma Greer, Beau, and Harrison, all of Decatur, Alabama.

Tommy will be remembered for his unwavering faith, generous spirit, servant’s heart, and deep love for his family. Whether he was directing a choir, counseling a student, rebuilding a piano, or encouraging his children and grandchildren, Tommy believed in bringing out the best in others. His legacy lives on through the students he taught and counseled, the music he loved, the instruments he restored, the family he cherished, and the countless lives he touched.

A Celebration of Life service honoring his life will be held at The Church at Stone River on Wednesday, June 17, at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Piano Fund at Church at Stone River, a tribute to his love of music and the faith that shaped his life.