Raulphard William Black, II, 71, passed away while he was surrounded by his loving family on November 27, 2016 in Accokeek, Maryland. Raulphard, also known as "Ross" and "RW", was born November 30, 1944 in Winston-Salem, NC to the late Lucille Moses Black and Raulphard Black Sr. He was educated in the Winston-Salem public school system and graduated from Anderson High School in 1963. Growing up, Raulphard worked at a print shop and cared for his mother and younger siblings. Raulphard attended Winston-Salem State University and served in the United States Army during the Vietnam conflict from 1967-1970. In Vietnam, Raulphard earned the Bronze Star

After Vietnam, Raulphard married and moved to Washington, DC with his beloved wife Ophelia, who preceded him in death in March, 2008. To this union were born two children, Raulphard III and Ouida. Raulphard continued to refine his printing skillset and worked at the Washington Post for 25 years.

After his career at the Post, Raulphard decided to stretch his wings and follow his dreams. He was a thespian upon retirement and also pursued an acting career. He became an entrepreneur and started the company "Expecta Miracle". He was a Mason and member of the Pythagorean Lodge #9 in Washington, DC and enjoyed fishing, western movies, horses and reading. Following the death of his wife, Ophelia, he married jazz vocalist Janice Price.

In addition to his parents, Raulphard was preceded in death by his two sisters Brenda Valentine and Sharon Black.

To cherish the legacy of warm memories, Raulphard leaves behind his loving and devoted wife, Janice; son, Raulphard Black, III; daughter, Ouida (Kevin) Holmes; two granddaughters, Lauren and Kristen; sister, Cynthia (Kenneth) Woodruff; brother, Francis Black; mother-in-law, Inez M. Price; brothers-in-law, George and Tyrone (Roseann) Price; and a number of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm Monday, December 5, 2016 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Serenus T. Churn, Sr. officiating. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. The family visitation will be held from 12noon until 1:00pm on Monday at the Church.