We celebrate the life and legacy of a man of God, Nathan Lamar Rowan, fondly known to many of us as Nate. Born in the summer warmth of August 5, 1940, in the small, vibrant town of Adel, Georgia, Nate was a beacon of kindness and faith that shone brightly across the many hearts and souls that had the fortune of crossing his path. He was called to his eternal home on March 25, 2024, in Cincinnati, Ohio, having lived a life rich in love and filled with the grace of God's spirit.

Nate was a man who embodied the fruits of the spirit; he was kind in deed, faith-filled in prayer, and loving in every breath. His days on this Earth were spent spreading joy and compassion to all who knew him. His legacy is carried on through his beloved son, Jonathan, daughters Natalie, Sherri, and Angel and many grandchildren and great grandchildren who each reflect a part of his gentle spirit and enormous heart. Though surely, our hearts may be heavy with sorrow, we rejoice in knowing that Nate has been called home to walk the golden streets, where sorrows are no more, and his soul rests in the sweet by and by.

As a humble servant of the Lord, Nate believed deeply in the promise of eternal life. He often reminded us, in times of trial and rejoice, of the great truth found in the words of the Apostle Paul: "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." (Philippians 1:21). Aside from his family, Nate's greatest love was his Savior, Christ Jesus, with whom he now resides in everlasting peace.

We stand united not in goodbye but in thanksgiving to the Almighty for sharing Nate with us. As the gentle breeze whispers through the magnolias, as the sun sets with a glorious blend of reds and oranges beyond the horizon, let us each find solace in the memories he has left behind - a true testament to a life lived in full measure of the Lord's work.

We, his family and friends, are both the witnesses and beneficiaries of Nathan Lamar Rowan's love and legacy. As we celebrate his journey from this life to the next, let us hold firmly to the knowledge that in God's infinite wisdom, He has called our dear Nate to his heavenly abode, where he will sing praises unto His name for eternity.

So let us lift our eyes upwards and take heart, for our brother Nate has found his rest in the arms of the Heavenly Father, and there shall he dwell forevermore. Amen.