Retired Sgt. 1st Class Nathan Lee Varner, age 66, of Augusta and formerly of Rydal, passed away suddenly on Sunday, November 12, 2023, while visiting family.

Nathan was born in Fairmount, GA, on November 10, 1957, to Edwin Nathan Varner and the late Margie Lee Varner (Cox). He was a member of Bartow Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Rydal, GA, and had attended Reinhardt and Bethel Colleges, receiving Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees respectively. After graduating, SFC Varner joined the United States Army, from which he later retired, after 23 faithful years of service in Military Intelligence, including tours and operations in Germany, Panama, Somalia and Iraq, among others. An avid University of Georgia fan, he loved sports and spending time with his family.

Survivors include his loving wife of 40 years, Beth James Varner; children, Jonathan Varner (Ashley), James Varner (Braci), Judith Varner, and Jeffrey Varner; grandchildren, Lyra Wright, Luna Wright, Nova Wright, Leo Wright, Joshua Varner, and Harper Varner; father, Edwin Varner; brother, Louie Varner (Miki); brothers-in-law, Richard James, Thomas James, Jack Hixon, Scott Hixon and several nieces and nephews also survive.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at 9:00AM at Georgia National Cemetery, Canton with full military honors.

R. Dudley Barton & Son Funeral Home, Adairsville, will be in charge of funeral arrangements for Retired Sgt. 1st Class Nathan Lee Varner.