Nathaniel Joseph Smith, lovingly known as "Motor Mouth", and affectionately called "The Mayor of Hackberry", passed away peacefully on September 2, 2025. He was 82 years old.

Born on July 16, 1943, in Meridian, Mississippi, to Henry and Mary smith, Nathaniel grew up with strong family roots and an even stronger sense of character. A proud graduate of Courter Technical High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, he went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Army as a Sergeant E-5 from 1965 to 1967.

After returning home from service, Nathaniel treated himself to a brand new 1966 Chevelle - sparking a lifelong passion for high-performance cars and street racing. He quickly became a well-known figure in the local and national racing scene, eventually serving as crew chief for Freddie Logan's "The Original Granny Goose". Whether it was racing at the tracks or reminiscing with his buddies like Bill Harris, Nathaniel was in his element when it came to speed, engines, and adrenaline.

Following his racing years, Nathaniel found peace and joy in fishing and good music - his soul's remedies. His favorite sayings like, "Taking it slow and easy", "If life last, death pass" "Don't take any wooden nickels", and the unforgettable, "Don't be hating!" (inspired by Malibu's Most Wanted), captured his wisdom, humor, and charm.

Professionally, Nathaniel dedicated over 40 years of hard work to OPW, leaving a legacy of dedication and reliability. Personally, he left a far greater one - as a husband, brother, father, grandfather, uncle, mentor, and friend.

Nathaniel was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Henry, David, and Roosevelt; and his sister, Stephanie.

Nathaniel is survived by his loving wife for 38 years, Kimberlee; his children: Erica, Natalie, Lisa, Teresa, Rena, and Lisa; and grandchildren: Adonas, De'Anna, To'Lisa, and Antonio. He also leaves behind his siblings: Delores, Steven, Joseph (Melinda), and Jennifer; as well as nieces and nephews: Theal, Latif (Fay), Lil Joe, Desiree, Regina, and Terrell.

Nathaniel wasn't just a father to his own children - he was a father figure to many. If you needed advice, a safe place, a good laugh, a song to lift your spirit, or simply the truth spoken straight, he was there. He was extraordinary - a true original.

He was Motor Mouth. He was The Mayor of Hackberry. He was the definition of a Dad.

He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

Visitation is from 2:00 pm until 3:00 pm, on  Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel, 2625 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati  (45206).   The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation beginning at 3:00 pm. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy he leaves behind.

To share a memory of Nathaniel or leave a special message for the Smith family, please click the "Tribute Wall" tab above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory  is caring for the Smith family during this difficult time.  Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.