Chad Wyatt Snelgrove

Chad Wyatt Snelgrove, born April 13, 1969, left this world to rest in glory on July 26, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, a faithful son, and a loyal brother and friend whose presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Chad was born in Red Bank, South Carolina, to John “Bill” and Vera Snelgrove. He graduated from Lexington High School in 1987 and went on to earn his degree in Criminal Justice from the University of South Carolina in 1991, where he remained a lifelong and loyal Gamecock.

On May 20, 1995, Chad married the love of his life, Rhonda Snelgrove. In their 30 years of marriage, they built a life rooted in love, faith, and laughter, raising three wonderful children: Hannah Story (Andrew), Zac Snelgrove, and Garrett Snelgrove. Chad took great pride in being a husband and father, and his love for his family was evident in everything he did.

Chad dedicated 29 years to law enforcement, serving most of that time with the Town of Lexington Police Department, from where he retired. A committed public servant and respected leader. While at the town, he furthered his training by graduating from the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. He was admired by colleagues for his integrity, leadership, and loyalty.

He is survived by his wife, Rhonda; his children, Hannah (Andrew), Zac, and Garrett; and his mother, Vera Snelgrove. He is also survived by his in-laws, David and Nancy Manley; his siblings, Glenn Snelgrove (Karen), Kathy Pharr (Randy), and Joey Lawson; and his sister-in-law, Melinda Snelgrove. Chad is also survived by his nieces and nephews: Derek Snelgrove, Jordan Snelgrove, Shannon Snelgrove, Haley McDonald (John), McKenna Manley, and David Manley; and by his lifelong friend and brother-in-law, Rusty Manley (Joy).

Chad was preceded in death by his father, John “Bill” Snelgrove, and his brother, Mark Snelgrove.

Visitation will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, July 31, 2025 at Mt. Horeb Church, 1205 Old Cherokee Rd, Lexington, SC 29072, with a memorial service to follow at 3:30 PM.

Those who knew Chad will remember him for his strength of character, generous heart, and his love for others. His greatest joy was found in the love he gave to – and received from – his family. His legacy of service and love will live on in those whose lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Soccer Superheroes (https://venmo.com/code?user_id=3732424802437038486&created=1753751357.0147&printed=1) or South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Foundation, Ben Willoughby Fund for Line of Duty Deaths in SC (www.scleoa.org).