Phillips Funeral Service, Inc. | High Point, NC

Obituary For Mr. Fletcher Waden

Mr. Fletcher Nathaniel Waden, Jr., 93, passed away at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center on April 10, 2021. He was born on January 30, 1928 in Greensboro, NC, the eldest of four boys born to the late Fletcher Nathaniel Waden, Sr. and Rosa Waden. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Sallie Robertson Waden; three brothers, Ernest Waden, J. W. Waden and D. C. Waden.

“Gnato” as he was fondly called, grew up in High Point, NC, where he attended the High Point Public School System. He attended The Church of God of Prophecy at a young age. Fletcher joined the United States Army, where he served in rank as a corporal from 1948 to 1950. During his time in the service, he met Sallie Robertson, and they were united in marriage on February 5, 1950.

In the mid to late 1950s, Fletcher and Sallie explored several business ventures together, such as Gnato’s Nursery, Gnato’s Clothing Store and Waden Supply, Inc. After the passing of Sallie Waden, he continued to operate his business for several years.

Gnato was well known for being suited up with his cowboy boots and hats, not to mention the talks about his business accomplishments with government.

F. N. Waden, aka “Gnato”, is survived by his daughter, Betty Waden Hope and his son, Wesley Gibson, both of High Point, NC; a sister-in-law, Myrtle Waden Ingram of High Point, NC; two grandchildren, Brian Hope (Jamaica) and Kimberly Hope; five great-grandchildren, Erica, Christopher (Doreen), Krisnia, Faith and Naliah; four great-great-grandchildren; other special family members; aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins; special friends, Doris Ashworth, Ida Covington, Evelyn Jones, James & Sarah Oglesby, McGuire, and Bob Bradford (caregiver and very special friend).

A private funeral service will be held Saturday, April 17, 2021 at Phillips Funeral Service Chapel. Mr. Waden may be viewed on Friday, April 16, 2021 at Phillips Funeral Service Chapel from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.

Guest Book

Mr. Gnato was so nice to me. He helped me with my project when I was in college. I had to start a mock business and he told me about his wholesaling business. He helped me from start to finish. He also took me strawberry picking when I was a kid. I ate more than I picked. Rest in Paradise Mr. Gnato, you will not be forgotten. Love, Karen Austin Shannon

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- Phillips Funeral Service, Inc. | High Point, NC