Phillip H. Black

Phillip Harlow Black, 71, of Ruckersville, Virginia passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026, while surrounded by family. A doting husband, gentle father, loving grandfather, and friend to many, he left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know him. More than anything else, Phillip was a devoted family man, and his greatest accomplishment was his family. He is survived by his wife Tracy, who he adored; His children, Brad (Kelly), Amy (Elliott), Matthew (Lara), and Timothy (Nina). His stepchildren who he treated as his own, David (Jamie), Katelyn, Shannen, Ashleigh (Stephen), and Jacob; His grandchildren Gabe, Charlotte, Eleanor, Theodore, and Gwendolyn. His siblings, Bob, Jeffy Jones, and Kirby (Linda); and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and his dogs Murphy and Ares, who all loved him dearly. He is reunited with his late wife and her daddy, his mother, two brothers, and many dear friends and family who went before him. He never met a stranger and was the kind of guy who welcomed newcomers into his home and made you feel like family with an unexplained kind of warmth. He had a gift for making any room brighter — laughing loudest at his own stories, and somehow making every person feel like the most important one in the room. He never missed a sporting event or activity for his kids, would drive anywhere for anyone at any hour of the day, and consistently demonstrated patience and steady love to all those around. He was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas where he had deep roots in the family carnival business, Vogt's Trailer Park and the family business, Ranch House Café. This is also where he fell in love with the sport of golf and kickstarted his successful career in the fire sprinkler business. A true lover of the state of Texas, Phil's ultimate devotion belonged to the Dallas Cowboys. He shook up many family fantasy football leagues by winning it all with an all-Cowboys roster. He was hardworking and loved building things. Whether carpentry, plumbing, electrical, or automotive, he was skilled with his hands and could figure anything out, long before YouTube or Google. He enjoyed building things for his family and teaching them his craft. While punctual, Phillip was never in a rush. He preferred to save his energy for the important things, like family game night, quietly cheering against his wife's beloved Philadelphia Eagles, or enjoying the spread at the Wood Grill Buffet. He will be missed beyond measure and remembered always. We rest in his belief in God's promise: "For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." - John 3:16. Services will be held on June 9, 2026, at 10:00 am at Preddy Funeral Home in Gordonsville, Virginia.