Dr. Frank Black Obituary, MARTIN, Tenn. — Dr. Frank Black, a longtime University of Tennessee at Martin administrator, professor emeritus of education and Martin resident, passed away on September 30 in Nashville. He was remembered for his years of service to the university and his continued involvement in the local community.
Memorial services for Dr. Black have been scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, November 7, at Martin First United Methodist Church. The service will provide an opportunity for family members, friends, former colleagues and members of the university community to gather in remembrance of his life and contributions.
Dr. Black joined UT Martin in 1988 as vice chancellor for academic affairs, serving in the position through 1994. He later resigned from the administrative role to accept a teaching position in the university’s Department of Educational Studies, continuing his connection to the institution through his work in education.
In September 2000, Dr. Black was named interim vice chancellor for academic affairs for a second time. He remained in the position until the spring of 2002, when he returned to teaching. His career reflected a combination of academic leadership and classroom instruction at the university.
Dr. Black later served as interim dean of the university’s then College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. He continued his work at UT Martin until retiring in 2008, concluding a career that spanned several important administrative and academic roles.
His educational background included a bachelor’s degree from Central State University and master’s and doctoral degrees from The Ohio State University. His academic training supported a career devoted to higher education and educational leadership.
UT Martin Chancellor Dr. Yancy Freeman said Dr. Black was an inspiration through his involvement in the community and his ongoing connection with the university. His legacy at UT Martin includes years of service in academic administration and teaching, along with the relationships he maintained with the institution and the wider Martin community.
As family, friends and former colleagues prepare to gather for his memorial service, Dr. Frank Black is remembered for his longstanding commitment to education and his contributions to UT Martin. The university community and those who knew him extend their condolences to all who are mourning his passing.