Nathanael Benton Patton

**Nathanael Benton Patton** **March 14, 1977 – August 30, 2024** With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Nathanael Benton Patton, who left us on August 30, 2024, at the age of 47. Nathan was a man of immense talent and potential, but also a man who faced a relentless battle with addiction-a struggle that took so much from him and those who loved him. For many years, Nathan fought against the demons of addiction, a fight that was often overwhelming. It was a painful journey for him and for the family who watched him struggle. Yet, through it all, he remained deeply loved by those who knew the person he was underneath; the person who was kind, talented, joyful, and full of potential. Those who loved him never gave up on him. When Nathan was at his best, his presence left you with a warm heart. He was a master carpenter, a gifted artist, and a great cook. He could build and create with ease, the same can be said for his ability to bring people together that otherwise might have never met. He could be coined a social butterfly, no soul was a stranger to him. He loved to cook a good meal and everyone loved Chef Nate's Daytona wing recipe or really anything he cooked, whatever he made for you, he always did it with heart! In the last few months of his life, Nathan found a path to sobriety and redemption in Jesus Christ, staying clean for over 90 days. During this time, he carried his Bible with him, we assume it was a symbol of the peace he had made with God. Even during his times of struggle, he had compassion for those around him, which had always been at the core of his heart. He helped care for his aging Papaw and shared tender moments with his family members up until the last few days of his life on earth. These moments were a testament to the transformation that was taking place within him. Nathan had plans to move to the family farm and set up a little furniture shop when he got back on his feet. He even sketched out emblems for the company on a piece of paper, "Nathanaels Fine Furniture and More" a small, but hopeful step toward his future. Nathan felt a sense of purpose and pull to help the homeless community where he had once found himself. He was street-smart and knew he could make a difference. Nathanael Benton Patton was deeply loved, and though his battle was long and difficult, we will remember him for the kindness, creativity, and love that he brought into the world. We have peace in knowing he is finally free. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to True Purpose Ministry, 2628 Morganton Rd. Maryville TN 37801. True Purpose helped Nathan in his sobriety journey and will forever hold a special place in our family's hearts. Nathan is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Sharon Patton, Grandparents; Carroll & Doris Campbell, John & Wanda Patton, Uncles; Lynn Campbell, Carroll Ray "Cowboy" Campbell. He is survived by his beautiful children, Connor Patton and Journey Patton; father and bonus mother, Terry & Brenda Patton; siblings, Daniel Patton (Paula), Kendra Batey (Matt); nephew and niece, Crew & Veyda Batey; aunts, Gail Headrick, Vickie Campbell, Denise Murphy (Fergus); first cousins, Doug, Christy, Dwight, Adam, Amanda, Emily & Shaun; many great nieces and nephews; special life-long friend, Kaylon Smith. The funeral service and interment will be held privately.
The following letters were sent to the Patton family by friends of Nathanael. The original handwritten notes may be seen on the Tribute Wall.
NATHAN He impacted my life in so many ways he encouraged me to be a better version of myself and wanted so badly to show me the right path. He had ways of showing me how much he cared even if it was keeping my size of shoes in mind when he would go out to pilfer bring me my size back. He never judged me and I could tell him anything. He was my best friend. I was lucky to know him. -Jennifer
Anytime I ever told a story he listened. He would not only listen but cared what was said- John
He took care of my girl and brought her to see me while I was incapacitated. He never charged us a dime. He included me in everything he done with Jen and that meant the world to me -James
He treated me like I was his own son trying to teach me the right path to choose he was real and it didn't matter what walk of life you choose he still cared -Patrick
I met him at a dumpster and we seen each other quite often at that same dumpster and every time he treated me like a person and was usually trying to find stuff for other people not himself. He was very giving – Mindy
Patton Family, Nathanael will forever be my family. He was like an uncle to me. There was never a boring moment with Nathanael. When I was struggling Nathanael was there to pray over me and give a shoulder to lean on and cry on. Nathanael had my full respect. He would go to war for any of his "brothers". I strongly believe Nathanael is in Heaven. He was not only my friend; he was a brother/uncle. My prayers go out to all of you. God is in control. – Love, Maddox
Hey man, Knowing you was and is a blessing. In just the 90 days we spent together I've gotten attached to you. You're a brother in Christ, but you've been so much more to me. We've shared similar traumas and both struggled alone but I believe you're with God now and as much as I'd love to be selfish and laugh and carry on, I know your in/at peace now. I just want you to know how much and how many peoples lives you have impacted here. From other students to staff members we are all going to miss you. I'm sorry I didn't have to words to sway you from leaving and I know you were searching for something because I'm still doing the same thing. Looks like you beat me one last time. I will continue to pray for your family and I will never forget you. I love you man. – Gerald
Nathan, I love you brother. I wished I'd stayed, maybe you would have and none of this would have happened. Only God knows best. I miss you and you'll always be in my heart. – David
Nathanael, You were by bunk-bed brother when I came from Meridian Mississippi on 8-13-24. I almost left that Friday but talking to you and you telling me to get with our counselor to call my wife and daughter and I ended up staying and though I only knew you a short time, you showed me so much love, and inspired me to keep going, so thank you! Love you brother. – Kyle Johnson
Dear Patton Family, Thank you for encouraging Nathanael to be a part of True Purpose. He truly impacted our lives in a lasting way. I arrived at T.P. on July 2nd and he almost immediately became my closest friend and confidant here. We were together every single day for two months but during that time I came to realize that it felt like I knew him forever. The impact that he had on me will live forever. I know Nathanael as a great and loving friend. But, when we came to your home to pic vegetables a few weeks ago, it was obvious that he has endless love and admiration for his family. He also talked about you all very often. Simply put, he is a great man and leaves an incredibly positive impact on me and True Purpose. Our thought and prayer are with your family always. Sincerely - Andrew Shafer