Raymond Lawrence Black, 61

Raymond Lawrence Black, age 61 of Valentine, NE, passed away on July 10, 2025, at Bryan East Hospital in Lincoln, NE.

Raymond was born on December 22, 1963, in Omaha, NE to Charles and Leona (Phipps) Black, the eldest of four siblings. He moved with his parents to California, then to Oklahoma in 1978.

Raymond attended school through the 10th grade. In 1985, he moved with his family to Valentine, NE.

Raymond attended KPPCDS for a short time where he learned many life skills, including how to drive a vehicle. Raymond worked at Pizza Hut for approximately 30 years.

Raymond enj oyed fishing, working on crossword puzzle books, watching movies and he especially loved playing video games. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandma Violet Phipps, and his cat, Tiny. Raymond loved his cat with all his heart. Tiny was like the child he never had.

Raymond was a very quiet (most of the time), laid-back person. He had a laugh like no other and could make other’s laugh without even trying. Raymond was just so sweet. He was so grateful for everything. His mother was his best friend.

He might not have always said what was on his mind verbally, but his facial expressions gave away what he was thinking.

Over the years, Raymond was referred to as The Gentle Giant by many, especially his coworkers. His family referred to him as Big Bear, especially his great nephews and nieces, whom he loved dearly. Raymond was preceded in death by his father Charles ‘ Cork’ Black; younger brothers Jammie and John Black; grandmothers Dorthy Webb and Violet Phipps; and grandfathers Eldin Webb, Charles Black and Pete Phipps. Raymond is survived by his mother Leona Black; sister Lisa (Black) Sinnett; nephew Austin Sinnett (Sierra); nieces Jennifer Sinnett and Skye Hitchcock (Gunnar); great nephews Hugh and Bridger Hitchcock and great nieces Roamlee and Valley Hitchcock and Weslynn Sinnett.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, September 29, 2025 at the Berean Bible Church in Valentine. Inurnment will be at Mount Hope Cemetery in Valentine with a meal following at the church. An online guest book is available at www.HolmesFH.com.