Nathan was born in Goochland, VA, and was the son of the late Willie and Mary (Watson) Cooley.
Nathan received his education in the Goochland County School System but left at a young age to help his father support the family. As a young man, he became a serial entrepreneur, starting a hauling and scrap business after settling in Reading in the early 1960s. In 1974, he opened and operated April’s Cafe until it closed in the late 1990s. He later opened April’s III in the early 1990s, managing it until 2021, when it closed due to the economic impact of the pandemic. Nathan was also a successful real estate investor.
Nathan was a talented, self-taught carpenter who handled most of the repairs on his rental properties and businesses. Whether on the roof, under a sink, or painting, it was common to see him working, as he could fix just about anything.
Nathan loved the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. Being the masterful fisherman that he was, Nathan was recognized by the Reading Eagle Newspaper for his impressive catches.
He also enjoyed spending time on his boat with friends and family and taking trips in his RV. Before age slowed him down, Nathan loved riding his motorcycle as well.
Nathan was known for his friendly nature. Whenever he drove past someone he knew, he’d honk his horn, whether they were outside or not. With a fun and playful spirit, he loved to laugh and embraced life, celebrating each birthday with a party. A true "ladies' man," Nathan was incredibly handsome and charming, with a smile that lit up every room he entered.
Nathan was a member of Zion Baptist Church and a brother of Berks Lodge #47, Reading. He also belonged to the now defunct CP Club serving as the treasurer for many years and was a former member of the Brothers of Peace Motorcycle Club.
He is survived by eight sons: Lawrence, Nathan Jr., Johnnie, Glen, Scott, Nathan III, Randi, and Bobby who was especially steadfast and committed to his father’s care. Six daughters: Lena, Gloria, Connie, Brenda, April, and Noriana. And five step-children: Gerald, Edward, Enoc, Angel, and Melinda. A devoted niece and nephew, Shirley and Fonz. As well as a loyal daughter-in-law Leslie. A dedicated caregiver Tonya Rice and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family.
Nathan was preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Mary (Watson) Cooley. Six brothers: John, James, Sam, Lenard, Willie, and Woodrow Cooley. Four sisters: Gracie Cooley-Jenkins, Anna Cooley-Jackson, Mary Cooley-Spotwood, and Adelle Cooley-Hightower. One son, Frederick “Freddy” Isaac, and a great-granddaughter Zo Charlie Lee. His longtime companion Lessie Kearse. As well as the many dogs he had throughout the years that surely greeted him at the gates of Heaven.
The family would like to express their gratitude to BAYADA Home Health Care, Don Paxton, Bevin Scheirer, and Alan Stewart, as well as the Zion Baptist Church Hospitality team and the entire church family.
A viewing for Nathan will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2024 from 9-10 at Zion Baptist Church, Reading. Services will promptly commence at 10 AM, with Pastor Bruce Alick officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant View Cemetery, Sinking Spring. The service will also be streamed on the Church’s YouTube channel @zionbaptistreading224
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a memorial contribution in Nathan’s name to Olive Branch Healing, York PA, or The Berks County Humane Society, as Nathan was a true lover of animals.
