James Lee Snavely was born Oct. 17, 1935, and departed this life Saturday, Oct. 31, 2020. Oh what a glorious day for him! He had long dreamed of and spoken of this day when he would once again see those who had gone before him. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Helen L. (Quessenberry) Snavely; two daughters, Vicki L. Moore and Lisa M. Snavely; a son, Jeffery W. Snavely; and many other family and friends…to whom he is telling stories even as we speak! He is survived by three children and their spouses, Dennis J. and Cherie Snavely; Kevin E. and Susan Snavely; and Traci L. and Don Critser; one brother, Jerry Snavely and his wife, Judy; four sisters, Delta Forrest; Ilena Willhite and her husband, Leo; Donna Bennett; and Brenda McGrotha and her husband, Pat. Of course, there are also all of those wonderful grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom he loved so much. His family was and is very dear to him. Jim loved life and took great pleasure in just having a good time. He was always joyful and quick to sing a song…or five. He loved to tell stories. No really…loved to tell stories. Since he always preferred the extended versions, time is now certainly on his side! Those wonderful stories were many times about family. He often said how he loved being a dad and just raising his kids. He was very active in the community during that time. Jim was honest and hard working. He lived his life with integrity and faithfulness. Whatever the job or cause, he could be counted on to do it all the way. The most defining thing about Jim was his love for the Lord. Everyone that knew him knew he was a Christian; not because he said it, but because he lived it. He knew the goodness of God and wanted everyone to know that goodness. He and Helen literally spent their lives telling and showing others how good God is. They both lived with loving and grateful hearts, and because of that, many people were touched by their lives. They leave a legacy of love, joy, and family. This earthly life has come to a close for Jim, but the next chapter is bound to be amazing. Stay tuned for the rest of the story! To quote one of his favorite people, “Happy trails to you, until we meet again…” Graveside services for Jim Snavely were held Friday, Nov. 6, 2020, at 10 a.m. at Thomas Cemetery with Dennis Snavely, Kevin Snavely and Traci Critser officiating. Song selections were “Goodness Of God” and “When We All Get To Heaven” sung by Kevin and Susan Snavely with Bob Ashley accompanying on the guitar. Jason Moore, Adam Moore, Garrett Snavely, Jared Snavely, Jeromie Snavely, Michael Shook, Jeff Messenger, Donnie Houchens and Austin Lohkamp served as pallbearers. Burial was in Thomas Cemetery under the direction of Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home, Mountain Grove. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Life Church-Word Supply in care of the funeral home. Online condolences: www.craighurttfuneralhome.com.
