Ora David Nation was born Jan. 9, 1939 to Fred and Bertha Nation, one of a large family. He grew up on a beloved family farm in Oglethorpe County, with an upbringing that shaped his strong work ethic and steady character throughout his life.
At the age of 18, Ora left home for Atlanta to live with his older brother and find work. He began his career at Rainwater Construction working for Cecil Rainwater as a steel erector.
That first job became his only job, a career he faithfully held for 67 years. Starting at 75 cents an hour, Ora worked his way from the ground up, eventually leading steel erection and concrete crews before moving into management and later becoming a building consultant in the company’s sales department.
Known for his calm demeanor, deep knowledge and dedication, Ora worked with passion and purpose until earlier this year.
Beyond his work, Ora raced cars from 1969-1975 at the Peach Bowl Speedway and Dixie Speedway. Ora frequently attended Peach Bowl reunions with fellow drivers and enjoyed reminiscing about the “good ol’ days.” Later in life, he found joy iding his prized Harley.
With his first wife, Ora had five children, including a late infant daughter, sons David (Jane) Nation, William (Lisa) Nation, Stanley (Robin) Nation, and was preceded in death by his daughter Pam Nation Martin.
He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Betty Nation, and her children: Jennifer (Jon) McCaffrie, Julie (Mitch) Paulk and Jimmy (Christy) Burger.
Ora cherished his grandchildren and great-grandchildren above all else.
He is survived by Justin Nation, Lacie Nation, John (Rachael) Bowling, Jonah Bowling, James Paulk, Jenny (Pierce) Brewer, Will Paulk, Leah Burger, Evan Padgett, Ethan Padgett, and great-grandchildren Blakely, Phoebe, and one on the way.
Ora was also preceded in death by numerous siblings and by best friends James Threatt and Ben Rainwater.
Ora resided in Roswell, Georgia, for most of his adult life.
He was a former member of Atlanta Street Baptist Church, where he sang in the choir and dearly loved his Sunday school class.
At the time of his death, he was a member of Castleberry Road Baptist Church. He was also a longtime member of Holbrook Campground, where he worshiped and served during many summers.
A man of extraordinary dedication and quiet strength, Ora Nation’s love for his family was boundless. His quick wit, steady presence and lifelong example of hard work will be remembered always.
A celebration of life will be on Saturday, Jan. 3 at Northside Funeral Home and Chapel at 12050 Crabapple Road, Roswell, GA 30075. Visitation will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., with a service immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.