Nathaniel "Bird" Alston, 83, of Coatesville, PA., passed away on Wednesday, June 29, 2022, at the Norriton Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Norristown, PA.

Born in Warrenton, North Carolina, he was the son of the late John and Cora Lee Alston. He was affectionately known as "Bird" by his close family and friends.

Nate received his early education from the Coatesville area public schools. He attended the Historical James Adams Elementary School and graduated from S. Horace Scott Senior High School in 1957.

A US Army veteran, he served in Korea and Vietnam as a paratrooper until he was honorably discharged.

After returning to civilian life, Nate continued his education receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Science from Hahnemann University, an Associate of Science degree also from Hahnemann and completed the Physician Assistant Program in 1974.

Over the years, Nate was employed as a Physician's Assistant at Drexel University, MCP Hahnemann University and Allegheny University in Philadelphia until he retired after 30 years.

Nate was a talented musician. He played the bass guitar with "Teddy Rich and the Richmen" and sang with "Little Tommy & the Elgins".  Nate enjoyed fishing, listening to music, basketball, and football.

Nate received many honors and recognitions including: PI Alpha Natural Honor Society Inductee 2005, State Medical Board - Governor's Appointee 1997, PA Society of Physician Assistants - Nate Alston Student Achievement Scholarship est. 1997, American Academy of Physician Assistants - Physician of the year 1997, Pennsylvania Society of Physician Assistants - Lifetime Achievement Award 1996, Allegheny University of the Health Science - Alumnus of the year 1996 Hahnemann University – Distinguished Faculty Award 1994, Women's League for Minority Education - Professional Achievement Award 1993, Department of Medicine - Chairmans Award for Clinical and Academic Excellence 1974, and the AIDS Task Force (PEHAAP) - State Senator Hardy Williams appointee.

Nate was a member of many health-centered organizations, too numerous to mention.  He also authored multiple publications in the health field.

Most of all his knowledge and talents helped to make a difference in his community and his life experiences and professional competencies were valued.

He leaves cherished memories to his daughter, Natalie Taylor of Washington, D.C.; sister, Fairfax Davis (Andre) of Temple Hills, Maryland; nephew, Ronald Jennings (Crystal) of Coatesville, PA; niece, Andrea Wicks (George) of Brandywine, Maryland; long time friend and companion, Evelyn Jones of Amelia Island, Florida and a host of cousins, other relatives, and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Inez Strayhorn.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, on Saturday, July 23, 2022, at New Life In Christ Fellowship, 1 South 5th Ave, Coatesville, PA, 19320. Please note: Masks are required for all those in attendance.

Click here on Saturday, July 32rd  beginning at 10:45 AM to WATCH THE SERVICE LIVE on Zoom.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82313819427?pwd=SHZPSWVpSDlOd2JGbEJtaEZWZXFyQT09

Zoom Meeting ID: 823 1381 9427

Passcode: wright

Condolences may be shared at the guestbook link on this memorial page. All are welcome to light a candle in Bird's memory.