James T. Snyder, CMSGT

Born and raised in upstate New York, James came from humble beginnings. He learned the value of hard work at a very young age. After his father left the family—James became the sole breadwinner for his mother and siblings, selling newspapers when he was just 6 years old. He took immense pride in his role as a provider, and always made sure his loved ones were taken care of.

James served his country in the United States Air Force Reserves, eventually earning the highest rank of Chief Master Sergeant. He also served as a Secret Service agent, working under 4 presidents (Eisenhower through Nixon).

After his retirement from the military, James continued to work. He became Chief of Security at Columbia Hospital for Women in Washington, D.C. When he moved to Florida, he worked as Chief of Security at Hawaiian Tropic in Ormond Beach. He also worked as a part-time barber and owned his own barbershop for several years. James never slowed down. After officially retiring at 70 years old, he stayed active in the community and traveled all over the United States.

James was genuinely proud to be an American. He never missed a Memorial Day, Veterans Day, or Independence Day event. He was an active member of The Moose Club, Life Member of the American Legion (Post 267), member of the National Fraternal Order of Police, member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles (Port Orange #4089) and a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America (Daytona Beach Chapter 1048). There was rarely a day that you wouldn’t see James wearing red, white, and blue. His American pride shaped his fighting spirit, right until the very end.

James was always smiling. He constantly brought laughter and joy to those around him. His ferocious passion for life will never die. He will be deeply missed.

James is survived by his daughters, Mary Lou Ensminger and Jane Snyder, granddaughters; Elizabeth and Katherine Ensminger, and nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife, Katherine Snyder, mother Doris Hopkins Edwards, siblings; Elaine Incitto and Andrew Snyder.

A celebration of life and visitation for James will be held Wednesday, September 2, 2020 from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM at Volusia Memorial Funeral Home, 548 N Nova Rd, Ormond Beach, Florida 32174. A celebration of life funeral service will occur Wednesday, September 2, 2020 at 12:30 PM, 548 N Nova Rd, Ormond Beach, Florida 32174. A committal service will occur Wednesday, September 2, 2020 at 1:00 PM at Volusia Memorial Park, 548 Nova Road, Ormond Beach, FL.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.volusiamemorialfunerals.com for the Snyder family.