Cecil L. Black Hemingway

His Story..

MR. CECIL L. BLACK HEMINGWAY, also known as "BUTCH or BUTCHIE", was born on March 31, 1948 in New Albany, Mississippi, to Etta Black and CW Elzie, both of whom preceded him in death.

He later moved to Chicago with his parents, where he was officially adopted by his stepfather, Reno Hemingway. He attended Wendell Phillps Academy High School in Chicago, IL, and graduated from Elston High School in Michigan City, IN. While serving in the 101st Airborne, he married Ruth Ezell, with whom they had a son, Corey. After his service tour ended, he became a Pipe Fitter until he retired. He enjoyed loud music, reading, playing chess, fast cars, and bow/gun hunting. While believing in a universal God, he lived life on his terms, and his legacy will endure. Those who truly knew him loved him.

Cecil gained his wings on February 13, 2024 at Franciscan Health Center. Preceding him in passing are 1 grand and 1 great-grandchild, stepfathers: Reno Hemingway, grandfather: Arnell Reno Hemingway, "Major Phiilips" and wives: Sharon Hemingway and Annie Hemingway,

He is survived by his children: Corey (Ursula) Hemingway and Esther Lee, a brother: Danny Elzie and sister: Sharon Elzie, along with 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, as well as a large circle of family and friends.

Cecil will be sorely missed by all that knew him.  In memory of CECIL "BUTCH", when greeted with a "Hi," he would reply, "Not yet!" When you asked where he was going? He quoted from 2Pac, "Just picture me rolling..." Roll on Daddy, granddaddy and friend, roll on. 

A Celebration of life will be Monday, March 25, 2024 at 11am with honor guards to do Military Honors.

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