Fred E. Black

Born in Ocoee, FL, the son of Fred and Inez (McCafferty) Black, he was a life long resident of Orlando, Fl. He grew up working at his family’s grocery store, Blacks Grocery in Orlando. He owned his first motorcycle, a Cushman, at age 14. He did not finish high school, a fact he was proud of. He joined the Army and was a heavy equipment operator, and then served 8 years in the reserves.

He began his career as a fuel oil delivery driver at Crum’s Fuel Oil. He then went to work for Orlando Steel, counter sales. From there he became a purchasing agent at Coastline. They wanted him to wear a tie, but “that didn’t work out too well” according to Fred. He later moved to Pioneer Metals as a Manager for 8 years. He was the top manager at Pioneer. In 1982, he brought his dream to life. Along with partners Cheryl A. Black and Shine Love, Fred started Black & Love Supply, Inc. In 1995, the business changed to Blacks Supply, Inc., adding additional family members. Blacks Supply, Inc is a very successful family owned and operated business, and Fred continued to be involved with his company up until his death. It has been said that he was a force to be reckoned with in the HVAC industry.

Fred loved to travel and take his Harley to bike week with his friends and family. He also sponsored an annual fishing tournament, this year marking it’s 26th anniversary. In his most recent years, he traveled in his RV and preferred to be gone more than home.

He was a Baptist, and a Master Mason. He held memberships in Mokanna Lodge #329, Scottish Rite Valley of Orlando, Order of the Eastern Star Pioneer #99 and Tavares #127, and was a life member of the Bahia Shrine Stable No. 166.

Fred was preceded in death by Fred C. Black, father, Inez M. (McCafferty) Black, mother, Shane Ellis Black, son.

Fred is survived by his wife Lori (Shreve) Black, his son Jason A. Black, his daughter Nicole R. (Black) Vines, his sister Mary Jo (Black) Heckle, and his grandchildren: Amanda Black, Ross Black, Austin Vines, Sloane Vines, and Walker A. Black.

The family will receive family and friends at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Funeral Home on Monday, March 28, from 5-8pm. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, March 29, at 11am at Trinity Baptist Church, Apopka, Fl. Entombment to follow with Masonic Rites and Military Honors at Woodlawn.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital (c/o Bahia Shrine, 2300 Pembroke Dr, Orlando, FL 32810) or American Lung Association (www.lung.org, Memorial & Honor Gifts) in Memory of Fred. Arrangements by Woodlawn Memorial Park and Funeral Home.