Nathaniel “Nat” Wilcox, 79, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 19, 2025. Nat was born in Monroe, Louisiana, son of the late Vincent and Willie Mae Smith Scorza, and grew up in the great city of New Orleans. He moved to Lancaster in 1987 where he married Linda L. Landis, with whom he enjoyed 38 years of marriage. Nat made sure to return to New Orleans as much as he could, loving to travel there by train and visit people and places that meant so much. He was a proud graduate of Joseph S. Clark (Bulldogs) Class of 1965 and was known by many as Chow Time.
Nat spent many years working as a banquet chef in hotels, both in New Orleans and Lancaster. He enjoyed cooking for his family and sharing his love of Southern food.
Nat had a deep love of God and was a long-standing member of Thrive Community Church (formerly First Baptist Church of Lancaster), where he loved being a part of the men’s group and helping with community meals. Many will remember and miss the daily devotions Nat sent out to family and friends, sharing encouragement and love of God with many. Nat was also known for his love of the New Orleans Saints (Who Dat!) and could often be seen wearing his Saints beanie.
Surviving in addition to his wife, Linda Landis Wilcox, daughters: Glenda “La-La” (Johnson) Chaney (Stephon), Kristina Wilcox, Rebecca (Landis) Nett (Randall), Rachael (Wilcox) White (Matthew), along with his son, Nathaniel Wilcox, Jr. Sister Zavier (Scorza) Smith (Casey), brother Calvin Williams. One of his favorite roles was being a Pappy, and he is survived by grandsons Nathan Wilcox, Fallon Nett, and granddaughter Natalie Wilcox. Nat is also survived by a host of beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by one grandson: Edward "Doofey" Johnson.
The family would like to thank Dr. Timothy Beer and his team at the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute for their incredible medical care and support. Nat found comfort and peace under their care and guidance.
A Homegoing Celebration of life Service will be held at Thrive Community Church, 2124 Old Philadelphia Pike, Lancaster, PA 17602 on Sunday August 24, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. Visitation will be from 2:00P.M. to 3:00 P.M. A service will also be held in New Orleans at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to: Thrive Community Church – Community Outreach and Son of a Saint (New Orleans charity). Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send and online condolence, visit the condolence page.