Nathaniel Crudup Sr., 82, of Lakewood, New Jersey departed this life on June 15, 2018.  He was born on January 28, 1936 in Long Branch, New Jersey to Omega and Roberta Crudup. He was lovingly known as "Nat" and "Poppa Cika".

Towards the end of his life's earthly journey (and throughout) his daughter, Karen, Darlene, and his grandchildren were devoted to his care.  Nathaniel and his grandson, Jermaine, had a very special bond and he was there for his grandfather whenever he needed him.

Nathaniel was a member of Mason Local 77 in New Jersey.  He came from a long line of builders, contractors, and skilled brick masons.  He had a passion for "fixer uppers" and a work ethic second to none.

His mantra was "Family First" and he had the ability to engage you in conversation for hours with his gentle sweet spirit, warm eyes, and words of wisdom.  He always had clever phrases to keep the conversation going.

His final words to his daughter, Karen were, "I'm tired, I just want to rest". He will be truly missed.

Nathaniel, was predeceased by his parents; wife, Florence Viola Peterkin; children, Patricia and Nathaniel "Nate" Crudup, and Darlene Crudup Wilson; siblings, Molly Crudup Brown, Betty Mae, Robert, Alfred, Omega Jr., and Tom Crudup.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Louis Peterkin, Ronald Mayo, Stanley Crudup, Jerry Crudup, Martin Peterkin, Natalie Carter (Rev. Carter), and Karen Peterkin; sisters, Carrie Belle Clancy (Raymond), Lottie Reid, Geraldine Littlejohn (Harold); son-in-law, Henry Wilson; sisters-in-law, Alma, Jet, and his devoted sister-law, Lorine Crudup; best friends, Jones Richardson, Buford Cocharon, and Moses Thompson; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.