Lathan Nelson Leggette
September 13, 1924 ~ November 24, 2014
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ROCKY MOUNT - Lieutenant Colonial Lathan Nelson Leggette, age 90, passed away on Monday, November 24, 2014. He was born on September 13, 1924 near Robersonville, NC in Martin County to the late Henry and Martha Leggette. His parents were farmers.
Upon graduating from high school in 1941, as an honor student and with a scholarship, at the age of 16, he attended Smithdeal-Massey College in Richmond, VA.
At the age of eighteen, Nelson volunteered the draft and was called in to service. He spent the next twenty-four years in service to his country during three wars, World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. He retired as a Colonel. He completed his college degree at Wesleyan College after the service and obtained a Ph.d. in Seattle.
He is survived by his wife, Irene Peele Leggette; two sons, Lathan Nelson Leggette, Jr. and Kent Leggette and one daughter, Terri Leggette Winchell. Nelson was also blessed with one grandchild and one great-grandchild.
A visitation will be held on Friday, November 28, 2014 from 7:00pm to 8:30pm at Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2014 at 2:00 pm at Martin Memorial Gardens, Williamston, NC.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to First Christian Church, 1101 West Haven Boulevard, Rocky Mount, NC, or the Salvation Army, 420 Paul Street, Rocky Mount, NC 27803.
Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com
Visitation
Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services
1130 N. Winstead Ave.
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
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Friday 11/28, 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Service
Location Not Available
Saturday 11/29, 2:00 pm
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Lit a candle in memory of Lathan Nelson Leggette
Lit a candle in memory of Lathan Nelson Leggette
Lit a candle in memory of Lathan Nelson Leggette
Lit a candle in memory of Lathan Nelson Leggette
This life is a fleeting shadow, yes, but we were not created for death. It is a real & palpable burden, but not a bleak existence, live grounded in the hope that in the magnificent, external presence of God they will soon see loved ones once again. John 316 The ransom sacrifice gives us hope.
We truly lost a founder and leader of the 491st Bomb Group. We wnt on many trips and reunions with the group and enjoyed both his and Irene’s company. He will be missed. Ben and Helene Napolitano
Chris C. Dracopoulos sent flowers to the family of Lathan Nelson Leggette. Send Flowers to Show You Care Same-Day Hand Delivery by a Local Florist!
Terri and Family, So sorry to hear about the Colonel. I remember him as a wonderful husband and father. I know he will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Wanda Alford (formerly Wanda Pridgen) Wanda Alford – 23 hours ago
It was a special joy working with the Colonel over the past year or so. He was always gratious and respectful and set a great example of a true Colonel… I can’t help but feel a closeness to Col. Leggette because he was born and raised in my father’s old stomping grounds. Love to Ms. Irene and God Bless! Kay
Lit a candle in memory of Lathan Nelson Leggette
Nels epitomized An Officer and a Gentleman. It was a pleasure to know him back when he attended NCWC with me back in the 1970’s. He was a kind and caring man who touched many. My condolences to his family, May you find peace in the happy memories you’ve formed over the years.
It was a long, worthwhile trip, Nelson, and you left many markers along the way. we’ll catch-up with you soon. Bill Getz, 491st pilot.
A true gentleman, husband, father, Colonel and friend to many. Lifting you all up in prayer. May God wrap his arms around you and bring you peace and comfort in the days ahead. Teresa and Al Bullard
It has been many, many years since I last worked with Nelson; I don’t know what prompted me to look him up, but I was sad (but not surprised) to see that he has gone to be with the Lord in heaven. I worked for a 3rd party inspection agency (WISco) that contracted Nelson to perform inspections. He was always the most gracious man and respectful man to work with, with an impeccable work ethic. May he rest in peace and God’s blessings on his family.