William Nathan Pate, 76, of Watha left this earthly life for his eternal rest on Tuesday, March 8, 2016 from New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

He was born September 21, 1939 in Pender County and was the son of the late John William and Mary Bell Rivenbark Pate. He was also predeceased by his sister, Mary Linda Chestnutt.

Nathan served his country honorably in the US Air Force for 4 years and served in the National Guard for a year. While in the Air Force he was a B-52 bomber mechanic. During his time in the Air Force he learned many valuable lessons that helped him through his life. He also was a dedicated member of Watha PFWB Church.

Nathan is survived by the love of his life and wife of 16 years, Sharon Cottle Pate; his children, William Daniel "Dan" Pate and wife, Susan of Willard; and Angela "Angie" Marie Pate of Watha; grandchildren, William Cory Pate, Stephen Kreuz and Kelly Kreuz; step children, Jason William Sheffield of Surf City and Jill Sheffield Halso of Wallace; step grandchildren, Jordan Henderson, Ireland Halso, Willa Halso and Marlee Sheffield; brother, Oscar Pate and wife, Fannie of Watha and Jimmie Pate and wife, Frances of Ringold, Virginia; sister, Janet Turner of Watha; mother-in-law, Kathleen Parker Cottle of Wallace and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Nathan was a devoted husband and caring father, grandfather and brother who loved his family dearly. He found great joy in the simplest of things, but his greatest joy was his family. Nathan was employed by and later retired with General Motors Corporation. He worked hard making sure those he loved were taken care of. Nathan's relationship with God and his unwavering faith was demonstrated in the way he lived his life. Nathan will surely be missed but treasured memories will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Funeral service will be at 2:00pm on Friday, March 11, 2016 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Wallace Chapel.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00pm , one hour prior the funeral service at the funeral home.

Burial will follow the funeral service at Watha United Methodist Church Cemetery.

You may share your memories and send condolences to the family by selecting our "Guestbook" or "Share a Memory" above.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Wallace.