Steven Otis Black

Cedar City, UT – Steven Otis Black, 78, passed away on April 23, 2025, at his home in Cedar City, Utah. He was born on December 22, 1946, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Thayer Otis Black and Juliet Lott. He married Jo Lynn Morrill on November 27, 1996, in Sandy, Utah. Although Steve was born in Virginia, he was raised in Seattle, Washington, and spent his teenage years in both Manila, Philippines, and Salt Lake City, Utah. He graduated from Highland High School and attended both the University of Utah and Midwestern State University. Steve worked as an air traffic controller and later as a registered nurse, serving both in the military and private practice. His military career was extensive and honorable: he served in the U.S. Army from 1966–1969, in the U.S. Air Force from 1971–1975, and in both the Air Force National Guard and the Utah Army National Guard. He completed tours in the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm, retiring in 2001 with the rank of Captain. Steve had a deep love of history, motorcycle riding, and fast cars. He cherished quiet moments on the porch, enjoyed listening to music, and found peace in nature. He was a proud member of the local Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association. Steve had a tender heart for animals — most recently for his beloved cat, Otis. Steve is survived by his wife, Jo Lynn Morrill-Black; his children, Christine Torkelson (Tyler) and Adam Black (Jamie), whom he shared with former spouse Suzanne Allgaier; Sena Black (Nate), whom he shared with former spouse Laura Arnold; and stepchildren Alisen Peterson (Duane), JennyLynn Harris (Chad), and Grant Peterson (Bonnie), shared with wife Jo Lynn Morrill-Black. He is also survived by 18 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and nieces Lesley Douglas and Wendy Douglas. Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Thayer Otis Black and Juliet Lott; his siblings, Juliet Carol Black and Donald Roger Black; and his grandson, Bryson William Peterson. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to doctors, nurses, friends, and family for their unwavering support. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity or organization of your choice. No formal service will be held at this time. Those who knew and loved him are encouraged to honor his memory in their own meaningful way — whether through a quiet moment of reflection, a shared story, a motorcycle ride, or simply by carrying forward his humor and kindness.

Steven Otis Black

December 22, 1946 - April 23, 2025