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July 31, 1862
On Friday, the 27th of June 1862, in one of the late battles near the city of Richmond, NATHAN W. son of Rev. C. EASTERLY, of Russell county, Va., was killed by being shot through the breast, only living a few minutes after receiving the fatal messenger, which time was spent in fervent prayer - his last words being, "carry me home."
A marked change had been noticed by his comrades in arms for some time previous, which affords strong grounds of hope, that he is now in heaven.
Nathan volunteered and joined Capt. McElhaney's company, under the immortal Fulkerson, who fell very soon after Nathan. Nathan was with Fulkerson in the memorable retreat from Laurel Hill - also with him under Gen. Jackson, at Bath and Romey, where he caught cold and was confined by affliction in the hospital during which time he was visited by his father, who brought him home. When his father started to obtain leave of absence, Nathan said "do not get a discharge only get a sick furlough, the country needs my services, and I wish to return so soon as able." During his stay at home, he was married, March 20, 1862 to Miss Elizabeth E. Fugate, who now mourns his loss. Soon after this union was formed, he returned to his company, and was with Jackson in all the battles in the Valley, except Kearntown, and demeaned [sic] himself as a patriot and soldier, as an extract from a letter to his wife, by his Colonel (Williams) fully testifies: "It has been my pleasure to lead Nathan in several engagements, and I have no hesitancy in saying that I never have seen a more gallant and punctual soldier. His aimiability attracted the love of all who knew him, and his brave conduct whilst engaging the enemy, excited the admiration of all his commanders. His loss is deeply lamented by his commanders and companions."
The deceased was born Sept. 9th, 1840, and at the time of his death belonged to Company "C", 37th Regiment Va. Volunteers. Nathan W. Easterly was a young man of fine intellect, and fair education, noble, generous and brave. But he is gone, having died at his post, among the bravest of the brave, as a noble patriot, fighting the enemies of his country.
JAS. T. SMITH.
N. B. Greenville Banner please copy.
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