Mother Gertie M. Nathan

Mother Gertie Mae Nathan, 100, of Peoria transitioned peacefully from this earthly life into her heavenly home on Saturday, March 07, 2026, at 12:41 a.m. amongst her loving family. Mother Gertie was born on January 8, 1926, in Lexington, MS to the late Jodie and Mary Alma (Rodgers) Montogomery. Mother Gertie was raised by her mother and late stepfather, John Robertson. John and Mary relocated their family to Lambert, MS where Mother Gertie was raised. She accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Zion Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Harry Bennimon. Mother Gertie met and married the love of her life Charlie Nathan into their union they raised their family of eight children with Godly values, love, and unity of family. Though life wasn’t easy for Mother Gertie working in the hot cotton field of the Delta she lived a dedicated Godly life before her family and her community, along with her values as a Christian she excelled in cooking and being an immaculate housekeeper. She raised her children with love and admiration of God along with a belt or switch when the “world” didn’t sink in. Throughout the years of toiling in the cotton field of Mississippi Mother Gertie and Charlie decided to move to Peoria, IL, where her sister Lula and her family resided. Peoria is where they settled and established a better life to raise their children. Mother Gertie worked and retired from the Hospitality department of Proctor Hospital. Mother Gertie was a member of Faith Tabernacle Church of God in Christ where she served faithfully on the kitchen committee and Mothers board. She enjoyed gardening, shopping, and cooking. Gertie enjoyed cooking for holidays and special occasions. Her cornbread, egg pies, greens, and dressing were a staple in the community. Mother Gertie leaves to cherish her precious memory: one son: Howard Nathen Sr of Peoria; four daughters: Ida P. Davis, Mary (James) Jackson, Willie B. (Willie) Guyton, and Rosie Cole all of Peoria; 28 grandchildren; (Although Nette claims one “grandchild”) a host of great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends who will miss her dearly. Mother Gertie, in addition to her parents, is preceded in death by her husband Charlie Nathan; two sons: Sidney Cole and Robert Nathan; one daughter: Charlie Mae Johnson; one daughter in-love: Sue Nathan; one son in love: Russell Davis; two brothers: John Robertson Jr. and Debulia Robertson; three sisters: Maggie Mae Gross, Sarah Cole, and Lula Pearl Brown; one grandson: Howard Nathan Jr.; one great grandson Dominique Nathan Jr. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Love and Kindness C.O.G.I.C. at 11:00 a.m. with visitation commencing one hour prior to the start of the ceremony at 10:00 a.m. Pastor F. Michael Watson will host, and Elder Felton Beck will present the Eulogy. Gertie will be laid to rest at Lutheran Cemetery. Arrangements were made especially for the “Nathan” family and professionally directed by T.W. Parks Colonial Chapel. Live streaming can be viewed by clicking the link for TW Parks Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/twparkscolonialchapel To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of “Gertie Mae Nathan" please visit our Sympathy Store

Mother Gertie M. Nathan

January 8, 1926 - March 7, 2026