Alan Black (13 Sep 1928 - 3 Apr 2015)

One year on and each day brings memories and constant reminders of how blessed I was to have Alan in my life. I miss his irrepressible sense of fun, his tolerance (especially of me) and his kindness. He really was one of a kind.

Alan's funeral was held at Robin Hood cemetery on 27th April 2015 and his ashes scattered in the gardens there on 5th June. This is commemorated in the book of remembrance and can be viewed either on site or by visiting the website at www.scribesplus.co.uk

Hi Becky,
So sorry to hear your sad news. I have very fond memories of your Dad at the various events where he came and volunteered. He was a lovely man and you must be very proud of him.
Hope you are well and managing at this sad time
Best wishes
Meg Warren

Countless memories of an amazing man and father. The Dad who always gave me his time and attention, guided me and coached me, watched over me and was proud of me and was always there for me. Memories to share:
- Teaching me to do a handstand up the wall at Wellesley Gardens - my first gymnastics experience that ended up being many more with my Dad.
- Always being the one to go on fairground rides and doing adventurous things with.
- Making me smile and laugh with silly jokes - even the repetitive ones. Loved him doing I'm a Little teapot when I was really small.
- Holidays and happy days out - always being the first in the sea no matter the weather!
- Being my taxi driver even until recently.
- Rescuing me from mean kids or even driving to my need when my heart had been broken.
- Taking on gymnastics clubs I started, and at the school gym it was so nice for Dad to be there at lunch time coaching me and my friends. Especially when he bought me jam on toast.
- So proud of him giving me away and doing the best ever Father of the Bride speech.

So many more and I will continue to remember and cherish xxx

As posted on the British Gymnastics website - West Midlands regional news on 14th April 2015

We are sad to announce the recent death of a long standing coach and volunteer of gymnastics; Alan Black.

Alan was a gymnast himself in his youth whilst serving in the RAF and he regained his love for the sport through his daughter, Rebecca. Alan coached gymnastics in the West Midlands region from school to regional level from 1985 until 2012. He retired from coaching at the grand old age of 83. Alan also volunteered at many local and international competition.

Many will remember the character he was and have fond memories of him.

My earliest memory is sitting in my Dad's wagon watching the sunrise on the road going somewhere, I know not where, him singing a Harry secombe song though for the life of me I cannot remember it. But then it could have been Mario Lanza one - he loved both. This we did on many occasions and I must have been under 5 . My best photo of him is one when Andrew was about one and they both look sun-kissed - it is only a small one , but I have another one of Dad and Sue walking in some gardens and that's nice.

I'm so so sorry for your loss Becks and Sue. He was a fabulous man and amazing father. Big hugs to you both xxx
Posted to Rebecca Elizabeth Gibson on Facebook by Lucy Goddard

Your Dad was a legend Becky. A valuable lesson I learnt from him was to have confidence, in everything. A valuable life lesson for anyone. My thoughts are with you all, and with a great man. RIP Alan ️xx
Posted to Rebecca Elizabeth Gibson on Facebook by Josie Edward

Beautiful photo Bec and such happy memories of your lovely dad. Sending you lots of love and hugs xxxxxxxxxxxx
Posted to Rebecca Elizabeth Gibson on Facebook by Claire Birch

Becky, I am sorry for your loss and it extends to your mum and family. Alan was a lovely man whom I was privileged to meet. An inspiration and who loved you dearly and had a great sense of humour. Sending you my love x
Posted to Rebecca Elizabeth Gibson on Facebook by Caroline Cole

Your passing leaves a heartache
That no-one can heal
Your love leaves a memory
That no-one can steal.

Sleep sweetly my love xxx