Miguel Lamonte Black was born on February 6, 1948 in St. Louis, Missouri to Helen (Bond) and James Black. His upbringing included his grandmother Mrs. Paralee Bond and grandfather Mr. Albert Bond, whom he lovingly called "Mama and Papa." Miguel accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior in 1971 at Crenshaw Christian Center, pastored by Frederick K.C. Price, where he embraced the scripture, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." -- Philippians 4:13.

Miguel was the first in his family to graduate college, earning his Bachelor of Science from SIU-E, where he made the Dean's list. A Danforth Scholar, he was awarded numerous academic grants and scholarships, including summer programs at Oberlin College & Conservatory, University of California Berkley, and Oswego University, and was accepted into the University of Pittsburgh MBA Program. A lifelong learner, Miguel began his professional career as a Computer Programmer and educated himself through books and seminars to become one of the most sought-after Database Administrators in the country, holding corporate and government contracts with Accenture, El Paso Energy, Paramount Studios, University of Southern California, and Randolph Air Force Base, to name a few.

After dating in college, he moved to Los Angeles, CA in 1976 to marry Paulette Whitfield on July 9th at the Downtown LA courthouse with only two friends to witness. They often laughed about it, saying, "Courthouse marriages are not fancy, but they do last." Miguel passed away a week before they could celebrate their 50th anniversary.

In 1988, he moved his family to Houston, Texas and custom built their dream home. While living in these two cities, God gifted Miguel two very special best friends: William "Bill" (Debbie) Ward in LA and Dr. Charles (Sandra) Glass in Houston. Though far from home, Miguel never forgot and always stayed in touch with his best friend in East St. Louis, Clyde (Laverne) Mitchom. These were friends who added to him.

Miguel lived for his family, seeing that every need was provided above and beyond expectation. Through their union, Miguel and Paulette welcomed three children: Shani Black -- Columbia College Chicago (Media Executive, Award-winning Television Writer/Executive Producer), Sharifa Black -- University of North Texas (International Classical Soprano, Director of Worship & Creative Arts at Salem UMC Ladue), Shomari Black -- Columbia College Chicago Magna Cum Laude (YA Book Author, Game Creator).

He often said his kids were his hobby and stayed in their ear to make sure they reached full potential; drilling in early, 'get off that TV and go read a book.' and 'an excuse is a reason for failure.' He instilled in his children a love of learning, critical thinking, problem solving, and understanding across their fields of study. He also taught them no matter what, they could always come home whenever they needed a safe place to rest.

As the eldest, Miguel was a role model for his many younger siblings, setting the example of education and personally putting some on their successful paths in IT. A man of math and science, upon discovering there was a shortage of African-American males donating to Dementia research, he chose to participate in Washington University medical studies and research both before and after his death. He left a relevant legacy.

Miguel's wit was as sharp as his mind. Although sarcastic, and delivered with an infectious laugh, it often left people wondering whether he was laughing with them or at them. He was a Sci-Fi enthusiast, always wondering about the unlimited possibilities of time, space and science. He was an avid comic book collector. He also enjoyed reading and researching everything from current events to Black history, debating any topic, swimming, and big family-get togethers.

Miguel leaves behind to cherish his memory: his wife, Paulette; children, Shani, Sharifa, and Shomari (Madelyn) Black; goddaughter, Dr. Tiffany Ward-Brown (Neurologist); grandchildren, Chloe Melton and Azariah Black; siblings, Balencia Dozier, Vendetta Black, Eric Black, Meredith (Kip) Cox, Cynthia Black, Angela Black, Gayle Black, Lynn Black, Desreal (Takeleia) Black, Jerome (Dianne) Black, Tyrone Black, James Black, David Black, Darniese Black-Hayes (deceased), and Nathan Black (deceased); a special big brother Ronald Whitfield; the Whitfield family, and numerous nieces and nephews.