On Behalf of the Greater Baltimore USBC – Reflections on our Dear Colleague John Black

The Greater Baltimore USBC Bowling Association want to speak directly to John’s family and say thank you for sharing John with all of us. Those of us who knew John didn’t just know him as a former officer and president. We knew him as a man with a warm smile, genuine enthusiasm, and a kindness that came naturally. He had a way of making people feel welcome, whether you had known him for years or were meeting him for the first time. John loved the sport of bowling, and he bowled for approximately half a century. But more than that, he loved the people in it. He served as a coach at Cedonia, guiding and inspiring many junior bowlers, many of whom are still enjoying the sport today because of his encouragement. He shared his knowledge, nurtured their love of the game, and helped them grow not only as bowlers, but as people. He served the Greater Baltimore USBC for the better part of two decades and stepped up to serve as president at a time when great changes were taking place in organized bowling. He handled his role with dignity, grace, and fairness. He listened, he cared, and he always did what was right, not for recognition, but because that’s who he was. John’s induction into our Hall of Fame honored his unending service, but what mattered most were the personal memories, the conversations, the laughter, and the steady presence he brought to our community. Please know that John made a lasting impact. We are better for having known him, and we will carry his influence and his memory with us always.

Respectfully,
His Friends of the Greater Baltimore USBC Association

John Black was one of the most phenomenal individuals that I have had come into my life. He was kind, friendly, warm, understanding, compassionate, etc. Sometimes you have people come into your life and make a tremendous impact. Help me somebody! John Black was one of those people. Do you hear me?

John and I were Folks who had a passion for bowling. As a matter of fact, John was the person who showed me, how to get the bowling ball, to "hook" down the lane. As a matter of fact, John Black helped many individuals, with bowling instruction. He was very patient in his attempt to assist bowlers, in giving them bowling instruction. Once again, you couldn't ask for a more ideal bowling coach then John Black. Help me somebody! Do I have a witness out there?

In reality, mere words do not begin to characterize this phenomenal individual, by the name of John Black. Do you hear me? To say that he will be sorely missed by me, his Family, along with others who knew him, would be a understatement. Thank you JESUS, for bringing John Black into my life!

Therefore, we say: REST-IN-PEACE JOHN BLACK!!! You will be missed, more than you will ever know. JOHN BLACK thank you for the memories my friend. We will see you, in our dreams.

Now, those Folks who read my post or who are within earshot of my voice, simply join me, by saying: AMEN!!! Thank you!

Peace & Love,
Rickey N. Johnson
Bowler & Friend