Brothers & Sisters,
It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of one of our own.
On Thursday, July 9, we unexpectedly lost a Brother, a newly sworn-in member of ILA Local 1475, a father, a husband, and, most importantly, a friend. Brother Nathaniel Frazier passed away far too soon, leaving behind a family, friends, and a union family that mourns his loss.
Brother Frazier earned his hours in 2016 and held Y Card seniority within Local 1475. Before joining our waterfront workforce, he dedicated more than 30 years of faithful service to the citizens of Savannah as a member of the Savannah Fire Department, retiring with the distinguished rank of Battalion Chief. His lifelong commitment to serving others speaks volumes about the kind of man he was.
Moments like these remind us just how precious life truly is. Tomorrow is never promised. It is so important that we cherish the time we have with our families, our friends, and one another. As we continue working in the demanding environment of the waterfront, I ask each of you to continue looking out for one another. Take a moment to check on your Brothers and Sisters, lend a helping hand when needed, and never underestimate the impact a simple conversation can have.
Although Brother Frazier had only recently become a sworn member of Local 1475, it has become clear over the past several days that he left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. The outpouring of love and support from our membership has been overwhelming. Reading the countless comments and memories shared by his Brothers and Sisters has been both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Just a few of those heartfelt tributes include:
“That was mine and Richie’s buddy. The jokes every day will be truly missed.”
“Rest easy, Chief! You were special to everyone in a certain way.”
“That smile could make any day out there a little bit better. He was definitely one of the good ones and
will be truly missed.”
“He was so nice and humble.”
“Such a super nice guy. He will be truly missed.”
“I’ll never forget his smile. He was a wonderful man.”
“Great man, irreplaceable.”
“Nate was a good man. I always enjoyed working with him. He will be missed by many.”
“Nate was such a genuinely wonderful person. His absence will be felt by many.”
“He was a very special person! One of the best of us for sure!”
The message from our membership is a strong one.
Nate was truly loved by his Brothers and Sisters of ILA Local 1475.
On behalf of the officers and membership of ILA Local 1475, we extend our deepest and most sincere condolences to Brother Frazier’s wife, children, family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In Honor & Memory of Brother Nathaniel Frazier,
ILA Local 1475
“Permission from the Frazier Family was given to approve this post.”