Jim Black was born on September 8, 1930, in Ringgold, Georgia. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on July 21, 1949, and served in South Korea, West Germany, Alaska, and during the Vietnam War before retiring as a Sergeant Major with Headquarters Company of the 172nd Infantry Brigade at Fort Richardson, Alaska, on November 1, 1977. Jim Black died on February 28, 2018, and was buried at the Chattanooga National Cemetery in Chattanooga, Tennessee. His widow, Betty Jean Teters Black (1931-2020) is buried with him. They were married for 68 years.

His Meritorious Service Medal Citation reads:

For outstanding meritorious service from 4 December 1973 to 31 October 1977. During this period Sergeant Major Black served as Chief Signal Noncommissioned Officer to the Director, Communications-Electronics, 172d Infantry Brigade, Fort Richardson, Alaska. He was instrumental in researching, writing, coordinating, and implementing the brigade's regulation governing all aspects of the communications system unique to Alaska. His efforts eliminated a major problem with citizen band radio interference. In all undertakings he displayed unique competence, superb leadership, and the highest standards of military professionalism. Upon retirement Sergeant Major Black is recognized for outstanding performance of duty with represents meritorious achievement in the finest traditions of the United States Army.