Nathaniel L. Smith

Nathaniel Lawrence Smith was the 4th child born to the late Reverend J.P. Smith and Annie Lee Collins Smith.

Nathaniel, affectionately known as “Uncle Bill”, began his educational journey in the Dougherty County School System. In 1958, he became a graduate of Monroe High School. He proudly wore his green and gold and was active with his alumni family until his health began to fail.

Nathaniel also attended Albany State College as a business major. As a student, he embraced his passion for learning and excelled in religious studies. He also found great interest in the Civil Rights Movement and was an avid historian. Nathaniel loved education and honed in on his teaching skills at H.T. Singleton in Calhoun County, GA. He also provided substitute teaching services in other counties upon request.

Early in his life’s journey, Nathaniel accepted Christ and was baptized at 16 Bridges by and under the spiritual leadership of the late Reverend J. D. Bolden, and united with Salem Baptist Church on the Gillionville plantation. He would later unite with the Second Mount Moriah Baptist Church where he was ordained a Deacon under the leadership of the late Reverend Henry Chapman and later united with the Greater Cutliff Grove Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of the late Reverend McKinley Drake. Nathaniel was an active member of the Usher Ministry and volunteered with many endeavors at the church. He found joy in helping anyone in need. He often volunteered his time serving meals on Sunday evenings at First Methodist Church, and he was instrumental in implementing early morning breakfast at Cutliff Grove on Sundays when the ministry served the community with two worship services. Many still talk about his famous pancakes.

His love for cooking birthed a short-order lunch spot in Sasser, GA called “Smith’s Sandwich Shop.” He served breakfast and lunch to local farmers daily. This endeavor came after his retirement from M&M Mars, where he was employed for more than 20 years.

He found the love of his life, Mary Young of Sylvester, GA, and joined with her in holy matrimony in March of 1971. To their union, they were blessed with one child, Selena. Nathaniel loved strongly and believed in being a present provider. His love for family and unity will always be remembered.

On Sunday, December 15, 2024, Nathaniel transitioned to eternal rest. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Janie Lowe, and his brothers Husher Smith, Benny Smith, Jimmy Smith, Raymond Smith, James Smith, and Willie Smith.

He leaves cherished memories held by his wife of 53 years, Mary Young Smith; his daughter, Selena Lee Blakely (Bernard) of Albany, GA; his grandchildren, Christopher B. Hill of Richmond, VA, Michael A. R. Hill (Kijah) of Marietta, GA, Jeremy R. Blakely of Daytona Beach, FL, and Brandon B. Blakely of Machias, ME; one great­-granddaughter, Alexandria Montgomery; his sister, Ola Smith; brothers, John Smith, David Smith, and Leroy Smith (Jacqueline), sisters-in-law, Ruth Smith and Minnie Pearl Young, all of Albany, GA; loving friends from Monroe High School Class of 1958; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.

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