Nathaniel Smith Sr. was born June 18 1939 to James B Smith and Margaret Hairston Smith. As a boy he always wanted to fix something or see how something worked. In school he was always a little ahead of whatever was going on and easily became bored once he conquered his goal.
After high school he joined the US Navy. While in the Navy he found a place for his natural curiosity and talents to become a certified electrician. After the Navy he became a commercial electrician working all over the country.
The latter part of his career was spent exploring new technologies including robotics. When not on the road he always had time to help his neighbors. He shared 48 years of marriage with the love of his life Luetta until her death in 2015.
From their union they had a son, Nathaniel Smith Jr. Nathaniel loved children and he enjoyed helping Luetta raise her two daughters, Darlene Smallwood and Charlesetta Norman. Nathaniel found joy in being Pa Pa to Jocelyn, Justin, Jerelle, Jessica, Josiah and Anthony as well as five great grandchildren and one son in law Al Eccles. Nathaniel obtained the first contract for HUD to build homes for seniors in Eden NC.
These homes were built in the Henry Street and Blue Creek communities. Years later he became the first black electrician at the Miller plant in Eden. He retired from Miller to care for his wife that had become ill.
He enjoyed helping people. He was the first to reach out to a friend in need and the neighbor you could always count on. Nathaniel was kind hearted and sensitive to other people’s troubles.
He often provided electrical services for neighbors and friends expecting nothing in return. Nathaniel had a heart of gold. In addition to his children and grands he leaves behind to mourn his passing his sister F. Joy Smith Moyer, brothers Fred A. Scales, Rev Brandon B. Smith, Dwane E. Smith and Pastor Kaven Y. Smith (Cynthia) “Uncle Nathaniel” was adored by his nieces and nephews and was always there for them, and they were there for him.
He was the best friend you could have. Nieces & Nephews Gina, Sabrina, Al, Raymondria, Jerome, Danielle, Catrina, A.B. Salim, Jessica, Justin, and Erica The Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at 1:30 PM at Wright Funeral Service Chapel. The family will receive friends 30 minutes prior to the service.
Burial will be private. Wright Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family. On Line condolences may be made at www.
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