Reverend James Allen Black Jr, 86, of Wakefield, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. He was the loving husband of Bette-Jean (Dickerson) Black for 53 years. Born on March 10, 1940, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late James and Betty (Stone) Black.

Allen was a Minister for over 47 years having studied Theology at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky, graduating in 1975. Following his Ordination in The United Methodist Church on June 2, 1977, he served United Methodist Churches and communities in Rome, Waterville and East Hamilton, New York; followed by Kingston, Rhode Island. He later served as the Pastor of Chestnut Hill Baptist Church in Exeter, Rhode Island for twenty years. Allen retired from the Ministry in 2022.

Allen was an avid Model Steam Train enthusiast with a special place in his heart for the Lackawanna Railway and the Phobe Snow Passenger Train. His love of trains came from his grandfathers, one of whom served as an Engineer on the Lackawanna line, while the other oversaw the Railway's Roundhouse in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sons Jason Black and wife Kasey, and Christopher Black. As well as four grandchildren, Jazsmin Black, Jameson Black, Madelyne Black and Gwendolyne Black.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 5-7PM in the Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia Street, Wakefield, RI 02879. A Celebration of Life will be held for Allen on Saturday, March 28th, 2026, at 2PM in the Chestnut Hill Baptist Church, 467 Ten Rod, Exeter, Rhode Island 02822. Burial will be held at a later date.

The family would like to thank HopeHealth Hospice for their compassionate care and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Allen's honor may be made to HopeHealth Hospice, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904, Attention Philanthropy.