Mr. Nathaniel Rogers Fitchett Sr., affectionately known as “Nat”, transitioned to his heavenly home on Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2018, with his family holding his hand and by his side. He was born on Nov. 8, 1957, in Northampton County to his biological parents Hillary James Custis and Maggie Fitchett. Maggie died suddenly when Nat was the tender age of seven. Before his dad, Hillary James Custis, passed, Nat’s family was blessed when he was joined in union to Maeozell Bright who graciously accepted Nat and his sibling as her “very own children.” Nat affectionately referred to her as “Ma.” Their bond and her faithfulness to him remained until his death.
Mr. Fitchett was also preceded in death by his sisters, Phyllis Reid and Mallie Brickhouse; his brothers-in-law, Adolph and Rudolph Picott; and his father-in-law, Otha Lee Picott Sr.
Mr. Fitchett was educated in Northampton County Public Schools. He accepted and recognized Christ as the head of his life and was baptized and joined the African Baptist Church under the pastoral care of the late Dr. Charles F. Mapp Sr.
Mr. Fitchett worked in several establishments on the Shore which included Perdue, KMC, and Northampton Growers. His hard, dedicated laboring years was at Bayshore Concrete Products, Cape Charles, for 35 years working on the spinner and later as a foreman. Mr. Fitchett had a quiet demeanor, but he was a fun-loving man. He enjoyed the simplicities of life – spending time with family, playing his eight track and cassette tapes “Oldies but Goodies” music. He could be found very often lending a helping hand to family and friends throughout his community.
After retirement, Mr. Fitchett enjoyed his life with his wife, Patricia, his children, grandchildren, and his entire family. Things slowed down for him, but God allowed him to interact with his family and each had a special relationship with him and many remembrances to cherish.
Mr. Fitchett leaves to cherish fond memories with his wife, Patricia Eugenia Fitchett, of 41 years; a son, Nathaniel Fitchett Jr. (Iyanna); a daughter, Celestine R. Daggins; grandchildren, Ava, Zoe, Kori and Khalik Allmond; mother, Maeozell B. Custis Kelley; mother-in-law, Mary Helen Ricks; eight sisters, Virginia Collins (Richard), Ruby Smith (Leroy), Helen Blake, Violet Fitchett, Patricia F. Simpkins (James), Silvia Custis Henry (Jason), Melissa Brickhouse and Mocile Brickhouse; one brother, Hillary Graves; sister-in-law, Yvonne Picott (Cleve); two brothers-in law, Eugene Picott (Janet) and Otha Lee Picott Jr.; uncle, Lynwood “Reese” Custis; a host of nieces, great-nieces, nephews, great-nephews and cousins; two special friends, Tim Merritt and Brice; and a large number of friends.
Funeral services were held on Oct. 20, 2018, at New Mt. Zion Baptist Church, in Painter, with the Rev. Dr. Charles J. Kellam Sr. officiating.