Frank Anthony Black was born on June 11, 1966, in Evanston, Illinois, to Yvonne A. Powell and Frank Black, Jr. He is affectionately known as Anthony by his family and as Frank by his friends. Frank began his education in the Evanston School system. After completing Dawes Elementary School, he attended Gemini Junior High in Maine Township. He continued his studies at Maine East High School, where he played football and basketball, and graduated on June 4, 1984.

Although Frank was an only child, he developed a close bond with his cousin Terry on his father's side, who he considered more like a brother than a cousin. On his mother's side, he shared meaningful relationships with his aunts and uncle, who played a significant role in his upbringing and provided him with a strong sense of family and support.

Following his graduation, Frank entered the workforce at W.W. Grainger. He later transitioned into the food industry, working at several food establishments and earning a Food and Sanitation License from the Illinois Department of Health and Sanitation. Frank pursued a career in restaurant management for many years.

While working at his uncle's restaurant, Hecky's, Frank drove the mobile food truck and would play Children's World loudly through the Hecky's truck speakers while traveling the Dempster Plaza Route. This was his unique way of letting Renee know he was nearby. Renee would later become the love of his life and his wife.

During his courtship of Renee, she invited Frank to attend her church, Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church. Accepting her invitation, Frank soon formed a meaningful and lasting connection with Reverend John F. Norwood. This relationship played a pivotal role in his spiritual development and ultimately inspired him to join the congregation as a member.

On October 16, 1994, Frank experienced a profound milestone in his spiritual life when he was baptized by both Reverend Dr. John F. Norwood and Reverend Dr. Eleanor L. Miller. This moment marked the beginning of his active participation in the church community.

Frank's involvement at Mount Zion expanded as he discovered an interest in church media while attending services. He was introduced to the sound board and began assisting with the audio recording of Sunday Services. In addition to his work with media, Frank also became a dedicated van driver for the church, faithfully transporting members to and from Sunday School and regular church services every Sunday. He extended this commitment to special programs, ensuring that all who wished to attend had the opportunity to do so.

Frank married Renee on February 11, 1995, at Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church. Their union became the foundation of a loving family, and Frank embraced his role as a devoted husband and father. He was admired not only by his children, but also by the wider church and community, where he served as a caring mentor to countless young people. Fondly known as "Uncle Frank," he was a guiding presence for all the children in his life.

Frank's greatest joys came from spending time with his family. He cherished playing basketball with his oldest son, Anthony, and often joked about being spanked on the court. He also found happiness teaching and playing baseball with his youngest son, Xavier, sharing his love for the game and imparting valuable lessons. The arrival of his grandson, Leo, brought Frank immense pride and joy, deepening his bond with his daughter, Alysha.

Beyond his family, Frank's interests were wide-ranging. He enjoyed listening to music from all genres, finding pleasure and inspiration in the diversity of sounds and styles.

In 2018, Frank joined Second Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Dr. Michael C. R. Nabors continuing his lifelong commitment to faith and community. Upon becoming a member, Frank brought with him a deep passion for media and technology. He immediately became involved with the church's media ministry, dedicating his talents to supporting and enhancing Sunday services through audio and visual production.

This new chapter allowed Frank and his son Xavier to share a special bond. Together, they learned and explored all aspects of media work, from operating sound boards to managing recordings. Their collaboration not only strengthened their relationship, but also enriched the church community, as Frank's enthusiasm and expertise inspired those around him.

Frank is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Forrest E. and Verna Powell; his paternal grandparents, Mary Frances Pettigree-Hatfield and Frank Black, Sr.; and his father, Frank Black, Jr.

Frank will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him. His memory will forever live in the hearts of those who love him. He leaves behind his wife of 31 years, Renee Black; his children, Xavier Black (Zahra), Alysha Kennedy (Thomas), and Anthony Black; his grandson, Leo; his mother, Yvonne A. Powell-Kittles; one brother-in-law Donald Byrd (Liz), one godson Nikko Ross, his best friend Robert Davis and lifelong friend Angela "Tweety" Johnson.   He will also be missed by his aunts and uncle; his many cousins and friends. His legacy continues through the love and connections he fostered with those around him.

I'm There Inside Your Heart
Right now, I'm in a different place, and though we seem apart
I'm closer than I ever was, I'm there inside your heart.
I'm with you when you greet each day
And while the sun shines bright
I'm there to share the sunsets, too, I'm with you every night
I'm with you when the times are good, to share a laugh or two,
And if a tear should start to fall, I'll still be there for you.
And when that day arrives
That we are no longer apart,
I'll smile and hold you close to me,
Forever in my heart.