Obituary of Nathaniel Solomon Thompson

ROCHESTER, NY - March 18, 2026

Nathaniel Solomon Thompson, affectionately known to those who loved him as “Lil Nate” and “Sport,” was born on April 19, 1975, the youngest of three children to the late Miriam and Richard Thompson. Though his parents passed while he was only a newborn, Nate was wrapped in love and raised by his mother, Mary Greggs, and his uncle, Nate Greggs.

Nate was educated in the Rochester City School District and went on to graduate from the Everest Institute. Raised in a God-fearing home, Nate carried those values into his own life alongside his wonderfully faithful and devoted wife, Toshia. She was his rock and his constant, truly standing by his side through every season of sickness and health.

Known for his keen fashion sense, Nate was always "looking fly," never without a sharp new outfit and a fresh pair of Jordans. When he wasn’t traveling or playing PlayStation with the 585 Bully, he was pouring his energy into the people he loved. Nate’s heart was even bigger than the man himself. He was the glue of the family—the one who called every single day just to check-in, the first person to show up for every event, and the gentle peacemaker whenever feathers were ruffled. To ensure the family bond remained unbreakable, Nate created the first-ever "Family Over Everything Cookout," a tradition that will continue to keep his spirit alive.

Beyond his family, Nate was a passionate advocate for Sickle Cell awareness. Having fought a lifelong battle with the disease himself, he walked and worked tirelessly to bring attention to a cause that affected so many.

On March 18, 2026, after a courageous journey, Nate joined the host of angels awaiting him, including his parents, Miriam and Richard; his mother, Mary Greggs; his sister, Carol Thompson; his grandparents, Samuel and Carrie Greggs; and his beloved "dog-son," King.

Nate’s legacy of outpouring love leaves a lasting mark on his wife, Toshia Thompson; his daughter, Ayanna Myers; and his cherished grandchildren, Kaden and Kayanni Jones. He is also survived by his brother, Richard (Siudith) Thompson; his sister, Martha Jodie Smith; and his dear nieces and nephews: Monica (Brian) Brooks, Jessica, Jada “Juicy”, and Shariek Thompson, Matthew Rolle, Jamie, Shannon and Diana.

His memory will also be cherished by his sisters, Martha Becoats, Mary (Rodney) Bute , and Rose Greggs; his brothers, John and Charles Smith; and a wide, loving circle of extended family. Nate held a special place in his heart for his "babies," Shirley Smith and Mahogany Barnes; his goddaughters, Diamonique, Essence Henry, Shirlean Smith, and Johnashia

Smith; and his special cousins, Tia Dickey, Olivia Chukwu, and Eboney Greggs. He also leaves behind his best friend, brother, and confidant, Eddie Wilson, and his godson, James Massey.

Nate lived his life with style, soul, and an unwavering commitment to those he called his own. He will be deeply missed, but his "Family Over Everything" spirit will live on in all of us.

Family and Friends may call Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM at St. Paul Believers Holiness Church, 63 Thomas Street, Rochester, NY 14605. The Funeral to Celebrate his life will immediately follow at 12 Noon. Interment at the convenience of the family.