Obituaries

Nathaniel “Nate” Witherspoon, 82, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 12, 2024. He was born in Jeffersonville, Indiana, to the late William and Ellen Witherspoon. Nate lived a life deeply rooted in faith, family, and service.

A devout man of God, Nate was ordained as an Elder in the Church of God in Christ (C.O.G.I.C.), where his faith shaped the way he lived and served others. He served as the Pastor of New Life C.O.G.I.C. for 12 years, pioneering service to the socioeconomically disenfranchised. His steadfast devotion to his church and community was a testimony to his love for Christ, and he touched many lives through his ministry and leadership. He was passionate about winning souls and often warned, “Tomorrow is not promised….Life is but a vapor….Hell is real….Your soul is most important.” To those who knew him, Nate’s wisdom, compassion, and unwavering faith were cornerstones of his character.

Professionally, Nate was a loyal employee of Colgate-Palmolive, where he worked diligently for 32 and a half years until his well-earned retirement. His strong work ethic and dedication were evident to all who had the privilege of working alongside him. Nate also proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army, and he especially cherished the opportunity to serve abroad in Germany for two years. He was a graduate of Jeffersonville High School and attended Ivy Tech Community College and the North American School of Advertising.

A gifted artist, he loved creative expression. He enjoyed playing a variety of musical instruments, singing, painting, sculpting, and woodworking. A king of crafts, he spent many days collecting driftwood along the Ohio River, discovering new media, and building masterpieces. Elder Witherspoon’s life was a beautiful reflection of faith, family, and service. He will be remembered for his love for the Lord, kind heart, and devotion to his loved ones. Though his earthly journey has ended, his legacy of faith and love will endure in the hearts of all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Ellen Witherspoon; son, Nathaniel Witherspoon, Jr.; siblings, Doris Henry, Willie Arnold, Lorine Adams, Herman Witherspoon, and Aaron Witherspoon.

Survivors include his wife of 51 amazingly blessed years, Shirley Witherspoon; children, Dr. Natalie Witherspoon and Nathan Witherspoon (Courtney); grandchildren, Wyatt and Carter; and sister, Purna Witherspoon.

Visitation will be held from 6-8 P.M. Friday, September 20, 2024, and from 10-11 A.M. Saturday, September 21, 2024 at Brighter Day Anderson Temple C.O.G.I.C., 1755 E. 8th St., Jeffersonville, IN. The funeral service in honor of his life will be held at 11 A.M. Saturday, September 21, 2024 at the church, with burial to follow at Eastern Cemetery.