Honoring Nathan E Lillard

Nathan Lillard was born on August 18, 1984 in East Ridge, TN, grew up in McMinn County, Tennessee and graduated Lenoir City HS in 2003.

"He was an excellent kid, very respectful and soft-spoken. He wanted to serve his country even while he was in high school." David Widby, Principal

Schoolmate Jamie Petty remembers Nathan as one of the nicest guys and with a great since of humor.

He later worked at Modern Supply.

Lillard was an Infantryman assigned to Alpha Company, 1^st Battalion, 327^th Infantry Regiment, 1^st Brigade Combat Team, 101^st Airborne Division (Air Assault). 

"That is how I'll always remember him. Self-sacrificing, strong, caring. A hero among men. My friend." SPC Doug Riggs

He joined the Army in November 2006 and arrived at Fort Campbell in August 2009.  His awards and decorations include: Purple Heart; Afghanistan Campaign Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Army Service Ribbon; NATO Medal and Combat Infantryman Badge.

Lillard is survived by his mother, Helen Hyatt and husband Edward C Hyatt of Athens, TN, brother Eric Lillard, and fiancee Leonard Beoddy.  He was remembered at Ziegler Funeral Home in Athens.

If you knew Nathan personally and have stories to share of his life, of His Honor, of his Humor, of his Valor, please contact us so we can update his post.