Leon Melvin "Mel" Black, age 67, of Jennings, FL. passed away at his home on Thursday, March 12, 2009 from an apparent heart attack. Mel was born in St. Johns County, FL. to the late Leon and Dollie Deese Black. Mel was extremely proud of his Cherokee heritage. His identity with the Southern Band of the Cherokees was Leon "Black Hawk" Black.

Mel had a lengthy career in law enforcement serving the community as a Sheriff's Deputy with the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office and the Brunswick, Georgia Sheriff's Office. He worked for a period of time as Chief of Police for the City of White Springs and also worked for the Jennings Police Department.
In addition to his proud service to his community, he served in country honorably in the United States Marine Corps.

Survivors include his wife, Melissa Black, Jasper; a daughter, Amber Cason (Dewitt Jr.), White Springs, FL.; two sisters, Dian Burnsed (Jim) and Vera Stevens (Paul) all of Jacksonville, FL.; and one great grandson. Because Mel knew how to be a friend he leaves behind a host of friends to mourn his passing.

Funeral services were held Sunday, March 15th in the chapel of Harry T. Reid Funeral Home. Interment followed at Sassers Landing Cemetery.