With deepest sorrow we at Henryhand Funeral Home regret to announce the passing of Nathaniel Cooper, 67, of Nesmith, SC, who passed away on Monday, March 23, 2026.

Reflection of Life

Nathaniel "Nay" Cooper

Nathaniel Cooper, affectionately known by all as "Nay," was born on March 28, 1958, in Nesmith, South Carolina, to the loving parentage of Mrs. Winnie Mae Cooper and the late Mr. Willie Mott Cooper. As the fifth of eight children, Nay grew up surrounded by love, laughter, and the kind of strong family bonds that would shape the man he became. On Monday, March 23, 2026, he peacefully transitioned from this earthly life into eternal rest, leaving behind a legacy of service, humor, and unwavering love.

Nay received his formal education in the public schools of Williamsburg County and proudly graduated from St. Mark High School in 1976. Determined to equip himself with practical skills, he later attended Williamsburg Technical College, where he earned his forklift certification. For over a decade, Nay was a dedicated and dependable employee of Peddinghaus Corporation of Andrews, South Carolina, where he worked as a painter. Known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and quiet pride in a job well done, Nay earned the respect of coworkers and supervisors alike.

At an early age, Nay accepted Christ as his personal Savior and became a faithful member of Greater Mt. Ararat AME Church in Nesmith, South Carolina. He found great joy in gospel music and cherished the spirit-filled sounds of the choir. Though he was not one to seek the spotlight, his faith was evident in how he lived—steadfast, kind, and grounded.

To know Nay was to know a man who truly embodied the meaning of community. He was more than a neighbor—he was the neighbor. Whether he was riding his tractor, bush hogging yards across Coopertown, sharing vegetables from his garden, or lending a helping hand wherever needed, Nay gave freely and without hesitation. If something was broken, Nay would try to fix it—even if he had to figure it out along the way. Titles didn't matter to him; if you needed help, he showed up.

And if you knew Nay, you also knew one thing for certain—you were his "CUZZO." Family wasn't limited by blood in Nay's world; everyone belonged. His quick wit, playful spirit, and natural ability to make people laugh meant you could count on him for both help and humor. He had a way of turning ordinary moments into memories and making everyone feel seen, valued, and loved.

Above all, Nay loved his family deeply. He spoke often and proudly of his children and grandchildren, who were the true joys of his life. His quiet strength, gentle spirit, andunwavering love created a foundation that will continue to guide and inspire them. He was preceded in death by his father, Mr. Willie Mott Cooper; two brothers, Mr. Harold Cooper and Dr. Emanuel Cooper, MD; and one sister, Ms. Willie Mae Langley.

Nay leaves to cherish his precious memories: his loving mother, Mrs. Winnie Mae Cooper of Nesmith, SC; one daughter, Ms. Natasha Elaine Cooper of Darlington, SC; one son, Mr. Narenza Latrell Davis of Johnsonville, SC; six beloved grandchildren, Ny'Jayla Cooper, Justin Cooper, Ja'Kyzar Frasier, Nyria Davis, Bricen Howell, and Tyler Thompson; five siblings: Mr. Willie Cooper Jr. (Ruth) of Columbia, SC; Mrs. Gladys Nesmith (Mingo) of Florence, SC; Mr. Randolph Cooper (Shelisa) of DeBary, FL; Ms. Donna Cooper of Durham, NC; and Ms. Debra A. Cooper of Durham, NC; one sister-in-law, Mrs. Phelesia Jones Cooper; and Ms. Julia Edwards, his former spouse. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends who will forever hold him in their hearts. Nay's life was a beautiful reflection of humility, resilience, generosity, and love. Though he has transitioned from this earthly home, his legacy lives on—in every life he touched, every laugh he shared, every act of kindness he extended, and every "CUZZO" who will never forget him.

"Well done, Nay. Rest peacefully. Your work here is finished, but your impact will live on forever"

Family will receive friends at 820 Coopertown Rd. Nesmith, SC.

All arrangements and professional services have been entrusted to Henryhand Funeral Home of Kingstree, SC. 843-354-2292.