He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. Elbert and Mrs Nellie Smith, wife Lena Lois, granddaughter Tyonna, and grandson Aye.
He was born and raised in Sullivan County, educated at Douglass High School, Kingsport where he played on the football team. and graduated from Morristown College. He then served his country in the United States Navy as an SC2C from 1943 to 1946.
He was married to Lena Lois and from this union came three children Oliver (OT or Tim), Howard (Harry), and Natalie. He was a Mason and a member of the American Legion.
Well known for his great culinary skills, he catered and hosted many events. He retired from Tennessee Eastman in 1983 after many years of service and in 1991, he and his wife relocated to the Atlanta area. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2000 with all their children and grandchildren in attendance. Well-loved and respected by his family and friends, he was known as Pops, Captain and Granddaddy to all who knew him.
Nate Smith leaves to cherish his memory a loving sister-in-law Mrs. Mamie Gillenwater; sons Oliver (Wilburtine), and Howard (Elaine), daughter Mrs. Natalie (Greg) Maines; grandsons Ryan (Cindy), Aki (Karmen), Sentel (Ashley), Gregory (Angela), and Justin (Chemelle); granddaughters Ayonna (Aaron), Yaina (Ahmed), and Ms. Kawana; 16 great-grandchildren, one great grandchild, and a hold of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and a special friend, Mrs. Virgelia Ellis.
Family will be receiving friends at 247 Dunbar Street. Services will be held at the Central Baptist Church, with visitation Monday, June 8, 2015 from 6 PM to 7 PM. Funeral service to follow with Minister Perry Stuckey officiating.
Interment services will be Tuesday, June 9, 2015 at 2:30 PM at the VA National Cemetery, Mountain Home, TN. The cortege will depart from Central Baptist Church at 1:30 PM.
Professional services and care of Nathaniel (Nate) Smith and family are entrusted to Clark Funeral Chapel and Cremation Service, Inc, (423) 245-4971.
