James W. Snell, 85, of Montgomery City, passed away on November 18, 2021 at 7:01 p.m.
Jim was born to Carrie and Ralph Snell on September 8, 1936 in Union, S.C. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Lou Ann Brooks, on December 22, 1957 to which three children were born; Donna, Marsha and Karen.
Jim was raised in New Franklin and attended Central Methodist University in Fayette on a basketball and baseball scholarship. “Jimmie” Snell was well known in the area for his basketball skills. His love for the game and natural ability brought many around to watch the New Franklin Bulldogs and the CMU Eagles work their magic with their outstanding point guard, Jimmie. He completed his degree in Physical Education with a minor in Science Education at CMU. He began his teaching and coaching career in Warrenton and was there for two years before moving to Montgomery City.
While at Montgomery, Jim coached basketball, baseball, track and cross country. Because of his dedication to students’ success as a coach and his love for basketball, the Montgomery County High School gymnasium floor was dedicated and named “The Bill Ballew and Jim Snell Court.” He expected a lot from his students and players, but was always fair and pushed his students and athletes to be the best they could be as individuals. He retired from Montgomery County R-II after 30 years of teaching.
Jim was a member of the Beta Sigma Chi fraternity and the United Methodist Presbyterian Church. Jim was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Lou Ann Snell of Montgomery City; daughters, Donna Catlett of Smithville, Marsha Kempf (Bobby Joe) of Boonville, and Karen Deves (Steven) of Montgomery City. Jim also had six loving grandchildren, Kelsey (Joe) Holtsclaw, Jordan (Catherine) Deves, Lauren (Zach) Shackelford, Kellen (Tiffany) Kempf, Sydney (Sam) Phelps, and Taylor Deves, as well as two adorable great grandsons, Cooper Holtsclaw and McAllister Deves.
Jim was an avid reader and enjoyed watching all sports. He especially enjoyed watching his grandchildren excel in their choice of athletic endeavors. In his retired years, Jim enjoyed daily walks, playing many rounds of golf, country line dancing with his wife and shooting pool with the guys. But what put the biggest smile on his face was seeing and spending time with his great grandchildren.
Jim chose to be cremated, and the family is having a private celebration of life to honor its husband, father and grandfather. Memorial contributions can be made to the Helen Reagan Cancer Fund in care of Schlanker Funeral Home, 207 Danville Road, Montgomery City, MO 63361, or the MCR2 Foundation – High School Basketball in care of Montgomery County Middle School Central Office, 418 Highway 19, Montgomery City, Mo. 63361.
Jim will be greatly missed, but left many with beautiful memories of his wit, strong character and love.
