Joan Marvella Black, 86, formerly of Hutchinson, passed away August 16, 2021, at her son's residence in Watauga, TX.  She was born November 27, 1934, in Hutchinson, to John Martin and Hattie Irene (McNett) Starks.

Before moving to Hutchinson, Joan lived in Texas and worked for Sears.  Upon moving to Hutchinson, she transferred to the Hutchinson Sears store and retired with many years of service.  Joan then went to work for Doskocil Foods, South Hutchinson, and retired with over 10 years of service.  In order to stay active after retirement, she began working part-time at Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, Hutchinson.  She lived in Hutchinson most of her life and then moved back to Texas five years ago, to be with her family.

Joan was an active member of First Assembly of God Church, Hutchinson, and Mount Olivet Worship Center, Hutchinson.  She had a servant's heart and enjoyed being involved in the life of the church, from teaching Sunday School, to serving on various committees and boards, singing in the choir, and playing the piano.  Joan loved her family, sharing her faith, and serving her Savior.

On November 27, 1948, Joan married Merle Dean Black, Sr., in Harrison, AR.  They shared over 61 years of marriage, prior to his death on May 30, 2010.

She is survived by:  sons, Mark Eugene (Linda) Black of Andover, and Merle Dean (Cindy) Black, Jr. of Watagua, TX; grandchildren, Misty Farrell, Troy Black, Corey Black, and Brandon (April) Black; great-grandchildren, Alyssa McReynolds and Aiden Black; niece, Connie King; and nephew, Kurt Starks.

Joan was preceded in death by:  her parents; husband; brothers, Jackie Starks and John Starks, Jr.; sister, Carolee Redenbaugh; and nephews, Randy Wilkes and Kevin Starks.

Funeral service will be 10am Saturday, August 28, 2021, at Elliott Mortuary Chapel, with Pastor John Chastain and Chaplain Luanne Haddaway officiating.  Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson.  Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to service time on Saturday, with the family present at Elliott Mortuary.  To view the funeral service online, the link will be available at the end of Joan's obituary on the Elliott Mortuary website on the day of the service beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Click here to view service

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Hospice and HomeCare of Reno County, in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.