Russell W. Black

Russell W. Black, 87, of Franklin (Cranberry Township), passed on peacefully at his home Tuesday morning, April 14, 2026, surrounded by loving family. 

He was born in Pittsburgh on June 8, 1938 to the late Wayne Black and Nora Mae (Weeter) Black Best. 

He was a 1956 graduate of Keystone High School. 

He was married June 22, 1957 to the former Connie F. Cotherman, and she survives, along with their three children: Jeff Black and his wife Lisa of Seneca, Julie Carothers and her husband Tom of Seneca, and Jodi Wagner and her husband Dave of Cranberry.  He is also survived by four granddaughters: Angie Carothers, Allie Franley and her husband Keenan and their children Noelle and Elias, Mollie Carothers and her fiancé Dave Plows and children Ada and Chloe, and Maddie Wagner. Russ is also survived by his sister, Carole Bowser and her husband Bob; and two brothers-in-law and their families, Jim and Tim Cotherman. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his in-laws, Glady and Charlie Cotherman; and a brother-in-law, Mike Cotherman.  

He had previously attended the Second Presbyterian Church in Oil City, and more recently Connie attended the Oil City Vineyard Church. 

Russ enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, and especially fishing.  He also enjoyed working in his woodshop, and took great pride in caring for his yard. 

If you knew Russ, you would know that he would have given the shirt off his back to help anyone in need.  You would also know that he had the gift of gab!  He could tell countless stories about being a Boy Scout leader and traveling to Philmont, or going fishing on the boat from Canada to Pymatuning. 

From a young age, he helped run his dad's gas station in Knox.  In 1957, he married his first love, Connie.  After getting married, he worked many jobs -- from selling tires to delivering milk, to support his family.  In 1965, he and Connie started their own business, Russ Black Insurance.  He found great joy in going out and meeting and talking with people.  Most of all, he was very proud of his family and loved them very much.  Until we're together again, Dad,  "keep 'er 'tween the trees!"

A private service to celebrate his life will be held for his family.  His nephew, Pastor Charlie Cotherman, will officiate. 

Funeral arrangements are being completed by Hile-Best Funeral Home in Seneca.  To express online condolences to Russ's family, visit www.hilebest.com

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Cranberry Area Food Pantry, P.O. Box 446, Seneca PA  16346; or to a charity of one's choice. 

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