William "Bill" Wesley Snyder Jr.

William (Bill) Wesley Snyder, Jr., age 98, passed away on Sunday, March 2, 2025 after living a life faithful to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Those who knew Bill recognized him in a complimentary way, including being a man of strong faith, integrity, strong work ethic, and generosity. While Bill appreciated that recognition, he stated that he was of the people described in Isaiah 64:6 and knew that he had only one hope. Although he never felt the calling to preach, his life did indeed minister as a sermon to others.

He was the son of William Wesley Snyder, Sr. and Jennie Katherine Snyder. He grew up in Hardin Valley with sisters Margie Justice and Aileen Owen, and brother Harold Snyder, all of whom preceded him. Bill was also preceded in death by his wife of over 64 years, Grace H. Snyder. They had two daughters, both of whom preceded him in death, Jo Ann Snyder (infant) and Mary Baggett, and is survived by one son, Jay Snyder. Two grandchildren, Brandon Mize and Wendy Long, preceded him in death. Grandson Rodger Mize survives him along with numerous great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. Bill had an unconditional love for his family and friends. He enjoyed their company and was an example of what love and caring should be. He was always there for us. He enjoyed the people in his life, often showing his sense of humor and quick wit.

Bill was a U.S. Army veteran, serving during the post World War II period at Camp Stoneman and in Japan. His brother, Harold, was an inspiration to this service, having fought and died in the mountains of Bologna, Italy during World War II. Throughout Bill’s post-duty life, he loved his country, prayed for its leaders, and valued the freedoms protected by the U.S. Constitution. He never forgot what the threat of tyranny caused in his family and its consequences if it occurred again.

Bill enjoyed gardening and yard work, particularly with Grace. Professionally, Bill was an electrician at the Oak Ridge Y-12 plant. He used these skills, along with additional maintenance abilities, to help numerous family members and friends with their household needs. After a hard days work, Bill enjoyed Grace’s meals, especially if they included corn on the cob, a dish of strawberry ice cream, brownies, and a cold Coca-Cola. A trip to the bank was never complete without leaving with a Dum Dum sucker.

Bill was a longtime member at Olivet Baptist Church, where he served as Deacon, Usher, and Sunday School Superintendent. He helped with church maintenance and, along with Grace, served the families in time of sickness and grief, and by visiting the “shut ins.” It is beyond count how many covered dishes he delivered. He attended services while able and then continued to pray for the church each Sunday. Throughout his life, Bible reading and prayer were essential parts of his day. John 14 was among his favorite scripture passages.

Bill was blessed, especially during his later years, with kindness and love from family and friends. Mike Wright helped make Bill’s gardening more productive with tomato plants, always including one for the cherry tomatoes that Bill enjoyed. Betty McCoige and Juanita Peters prepared his favorite dishes. Dr. Karen Rhea, along with numerous medical specialists and therapists, provided excellent medical care. Patricia Pace’s kindness to the family helped facilitate the care giving Bill was able to receive.

Bill has now left his earthly body and entered into the presence of the Lord. To remember his life and honor this event, the family will receive friends at Weaver Funeral Home from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. on Sunday, March 9, 2025, with a funeral service following. Reverend Mike Torrence and Cathy Torrence will officiate and provide music. Family and friends are welcome to meet at Highland Memorial Cemetery at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, March 10, 2025 for his internment. May the Lord bless the numerous friends and family in Bill’s life. Condolences are welcome at weaverfuneralservices.com