Nathaniel Smith

Nathaniel (Nate) Smith departed this life on Thursday, January 11, 2024. He was born on April 12, 1938 in Athens GA to Bessie Smith and Adam Haynes. After completing high school, he enlisted and served in the U.S. Air Force as a Materials Handling Specialist for 10 years. He met and married Pearlie Crawford while stationed in Little Rock AR and they had four children together. Upon separating from the military, Nate settled in Middletown OH and subsequently married Carrie Harvey. He was employed at AK Steel for 30 years. Upon retiring from AK Steel, he was presented with the key to the city in honor of his superb work and leadership at the company.

Nate professed his faith in Christ and joined St Mark Missionary Baptist Church of Cincinnati where he worshiped and served on the Deacon Board under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Cecil Ferrell. He was a friendly and outgoing person who never met a stranger that he couldn't befriend. His hobbies were traveling and fishing. He achieved his goal of vacationing in all 50 of the states. His proudest accomplishment was raising his blended family.

Nate was preceded in death by his mother, Bessie Mae Massie, wife Carrie, and step-daughter Gwen Harvey. He leaves to cherish his memory sons Kenneth, Steven, and Nicholas, daughter Yolanda, and step-daughter Thea; 14 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren, and many extended family members.

He chose to donate his remains to Maryland State Anatomy Board for medical research. The family will hold a private memorial.