Marie Legrand Black, 85, affectionately known to many as "Mama Black" and the "Candy Lady" went home to be with her heavenly father on Monday, November 3, 2008.

She was born November 17, 1922 in Mt. Gilead, NC to Arthur and Mable Legrand. She attended United Memorial Holiness Church and was Mother of the Church and recording artist of "Don't Do the Drugs" with United Holiness Church. She was also an advisor with the drug program at her church.

Mama Black's wit, charm, and wisdom touched all that knew her. Always a smile on her face and willing to lend a helping hand, her neighbors in the Happy Hill Community knew her as the "Candy Lady".

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Wallace Black; daughter, Kattie Evans; and grandson, Troy Evans.

She leaves to cherish her memories her children, Marie Wilson, Rebecca Black, Audrey Thompson, Maybell Warren (Benny), Lavern Taylor (Leon), and Wallace Black, Jr. (Beverly); 15 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and a host of caring nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 3pm Saturday, November 8, 2008 from the Russell Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend John P. Williams, Jr. officiating. Interment will follow in Piedmont Memorial Gardens. The family visitation will be held from 2pm until 3pm on Saturday at the Chapel.

"The family appreciates the deeds of kindness, words of sympathy and flowers from friends at this time. A special Thank You to a team of caregivers who gave years of loving care, Dr. Douglas Stewart, Dr. Clinton Soronia, Dr. Robert Kelly, Dr. Grote, Salem Dialysis, Hospice, Pastor John P. & Etrula Williams. We will forever be grateful."