Oralee Black

July 11, 1955 ~ November 29, 2019

“The stars will shine a little bit brighter and the earth a little less joyful without my aunt’s infectious laugh and beautiful smile. She will be missed, but there is joy in heaven as she joins my grandparents.” (LaNae B. Rodas)

Oralee Black joined the family of Oris and Phyrl Black on July 11, 1955. She was welcomed by Darrell, Mary, and Kaylene. Not wanting to be left out of the fun, Wayne quickly followed Oralee in just a few minutes. 

A few years later Steve arrived, evening out the numbers and finalizing the perfect pool of playmates. 

Oralee was a tender spirit with the ability to smooth over tough situations.

She was born in the old hospital in Monticello and spent her formative years in Blanding. 

Watching the care her father received after he sustained a broken back, Oralee had the desire to become a nurse. She obtained employment in the kitchen at the nursing home in Blanding. 

Her interaction with the patients and staff further inspired her to pursue her goals. She graduated from San Juan High School in 1973 and made her way to Ogden where she graduated from Weber State College as a registered nurse. 

While in school, she was attracted to working with the oldest and the youngest patients. Her career eventually led her to specializing in labor and delivery. 

After spending time working in Salt Lake City, San Bernardino, CA, and Mt Pleasant, UT, Oralee returned to Blanding for the remainder of her career and life. 

She cared for her parents with tender love and consideration as they each fought battles with their health. She worked in the hospital in Monticello and managed the birthing center in Blanding for many years. 

A few years ago her health began to fail as the effects of diabetes began to take their toll. 

Oralee remained in her home caring for herself, with the assistance of her family, until the end. She returned Home during the night of November 29, 2019. 

She is survived by her siblings Darrell (Kathryn) Black, Mary Sibley, Kaylene (Delbert) Mulvey, Wayne (Sheila) Black, Steven (Patty) Black; and 15 nieces and nephews and their families. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, a nephew, and a niece. 

A viewing will be held in the North Chapel in Blanding from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 5, 2019. The funeral will follow at 1 p.m. Interment will be in the Blanding City Cemetery.

San Juan Record

49 South Main St
PO Box 879
Monticello, UT 84535

Phone: 435.587.2277
Fax: 435.587.3377
news@sjrnews.com
Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday