Obituary of Paul Steven Black

Paul Steven Black of Elmira, NY passed away at Arnot Ogden Medical Center on May 4, 2020. He was 67. Paul was born on February 20, 1953 in Maumee, Ohio to Joseph and Emma Black. He was the youngest of eight children. He spent his childhood enjoying the outdoors and loved spending time at Side Cut Metropark. Paul married his childhood sweetheart and love of his life, Carolyn, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church on July 16, 1977. Paul and Carolyn were happily married until her death, just prior to their 33rd anniversary. They raised two children together. Although he lived most of his life in Toledo, Ohio, Paul moved to Elmira, NY in February 2003 where he made many new friends. He was an active member of Open Door Baptist Church. Family was the most important aspect of Paul's life. For Paul, family did not stop at blood. He had many special people who crossed his path whom he also considered his family. He had a kind and generous heart. Paul would be the first person in line to help someone in need, whether it be a ride to the store, helping them move furniture, or a place to stay if they fell on hard times. He cherished every moment he spent with his family and friends. Always a proud parent and grandparent, he enjoyed attending school events, school concerts, dance recitals, and his grandchildren's various sporting events. He saved every program, ticket stub, and flyer from those events. Paul loved to reminisce, sharing childhood stories or happy memories over a cup (or pot) of coffee. Endless conversations and visiting family and friends were his favorite past times. Hand made gifts, family photos, and mementos were his most prized possessions. Paul also enjoyed playing cards and games of all types. Family poker nights, however, where his all time favorite. Furthermore, Paul had a love for horror movies of all kinds with a particular fondness for the monster flicks found on the SyFy channel. With all of his interests, Paul enjoyed them most when he was surrounded by family and friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carolyn Black; parents, Joseph and Emma Black; brothers, Richard Black, John Black, and George Black; sisters, Helen Brown, Violet Hanner Brown, and Virginia Gonzales. Paul is survived by his daughter, Amy (David) Trimber; son, Paul (Jennifer) Black II; and grandchildren, Joseph, Douglas, Jocelyn, Connor, Jaylei, Carolynn, and Ethan. He is also survived by his brother, Charles (Elaine) Black, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. In addition to his human family and friends, Paul's animals were also his family. He loved dogs and provided a loving home to several over the years. He will be greeted by many wagging tails at the Rainbow Bridge. He is survived by his beagle, Macy. Unfortunately, a traditional funeral is not possible due to the current limits on social gatherings. Paul will be laid to rest next to his wife at Woodlawn Cemetery in Elmira, NY on Friday, May 15 2020 at 1:00 p.m. A celebration of life will be planned for a future date at his favorite place, Side Cut Metropark in Maumee, Ohio. Paul could always be found with a smile on his face. His family and friends will always remember his playful spirit and fondness for practical jokes and pranks. Please bring your fond memories and stories to share as we celebrate his life this summer.