Nathaniel Smith was born in Albany, Georgia on March 24, 1936 to the late Annie Lee Johnson and Charlie Smith. Most of his childhood and adolescent years were spent in the loving care of his maternal grandmother, Nannie Johnson, at Mills Place in Dougherty County.

Nathaniel was an exceptionally inquisitive child who loved learning. Oftentimes, as a student at Hartwell and Laster Elementary Schools in Dougherty County, he was the first to arrive at school and waited eagerly for the custodian to unlock the doors. In 1958, he graduated from Monroe High School having been an outstanding athlete and member of the Tornado football and track teams. Nathaniel was proud to be a Tornado, and remained committed to his alma mater for 62 years.

Growing up in a strong Christian home, Nathaniel was taught the Word of God and the value of living a Christ-like life. At a very early age, he accepted Christ as his personal savior and united with the First Bethesda Baptist Church (Shepherd). Through the years, his faith and trust in God guided his life and allowed him to be an example for family, friends, and all who came in contact with him.

Nathaniel never knew idleness. His very diverse, wide-ranging professional career included employment as a Machine Operator with Flint Industrial Services, Crop Duster Assemblyman at Aero Commander, and Machine Operator in Final and Finishing for 18 years at Firestone until the plant's closing in 1986. During his employment at Aero Commander, Nathaniel's burning desire to challenge himself and seek entrepreneurial opportunities led him to open Cousin's Barbecue, a business he owned and operated for 45 years. His unquestionable work ethic, superior customer service, first-class food offerings, and exemplary integrity and trust garnered him the coveted title of "Barbecue Master" of the southwest Albany community until his retirement in 2013.

Endearingly known as Cuz by many, Nathaniel really knew what it meant to have a life well-lived. He was deeply devoted to his family and friends; provided love and support to anyone in need; led by example; was accepting and forgiving; never met a stranger; and always found a silver lining in every situation. His heart was filled with kindness, care, and compassion for all that he encountered. To know him was to dearly love him. In his leisure, he enjoyed the beauty of nature while creating a show-stopping, immaculate lawn; reading the paper; watching television; spending time with family; or just relaxing with friends as they engaged in tales about old times. He will be sorely missed by all who were blessed by his friendship and love.

On April 23, 2023, Nathaniel transitioned to eternal rest with the Lord. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Charlie Smith; granddaughter, LeKensha Spann; and a great grandson, De'Vonte Sylvester.

His love and legacy will continue on through his children, Sabrena Brewton, Nathaniel Smith, Verlisha Hicks, William (Mercedes) Smith, Erica (Bill) Potts, and Eric (Yvonne) Raines; grandchildren, Vontrech (CJ) Jones, Clinton (Shamaka) Shaw, Aresia Boykin, LaToya Hicks, Mechelle Hicks, Sarne (Anthony) Sylvester, Felton Hicks, Jimmy Smith, Baleigh Potts, and Erielle Potts; great grandchildren, Civaughn Jones, Cianna Jones, Cierra Jones, Travis Horton, Jr., Ari Thornton, Joshua Boykin, Cheyenne Gay, Malik Hicks, Macari Fields, Shy'Asia Sylvester, A'Kavion Sylvester, Arianna Sylvester, Reginald Clay, Jr., and Brayden Hicks.