Leonard David Snell, 94, of Yosemite, Kentucky passed away on Saturday, December 14, 2024. He was born at home in Mt. Victory, KY to Barney Russell and Martha Frances Ratliff Snell on October 25, 1930. He was the 7th child of Barney and Martha out of 10 children.
Preceding him in death were his parents Barney and Martha, siblings, Sarah Susan Schneider, Ray Snell, Lucy Mae Sears, Elmer Lee Snell, Glenn Kay Snell, Clell C. Snell, Robert (Bobby) Ellis Snell, William (Billy) Russell Snell and an infant son, Leonard Keith Snell.
He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Julia Jeanette (Hines) Snell; daughters, Vera Lynn King (Jeff) and Valerie Kay Winn (Rick); grandsons, Benjamin David King, Bradley Ray King, Richard David Winn (Kayla), and Robert Daniel Winn (Katie); one brother, Charles Richard Snell; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
His first great-grandchild, a girl, is due in May to David and Kayla Winn.
David's life was influential to many in his family, his friends, and his community.
He served as a corporal in the Army from 1949-1952 during the Korean conflict, guarding the Panama Canal.
He married his wife (Jenny) 68 years ago and their union was an example of a loving and Christian relationship for their daughters, grandsons, and anyone who knew them.
Kentucky was home for both David and his wife and they returned to Kentucky with their children in 1971. They purchased a farm and farming was one of the great joys of his life.
David and his wife Jenny were active members of the community. He organized and became the first president of the PTO at his daughter's elementary school.
He assisted in organizing the South East Casey Volunteer Fire Department and was an active member serving on the board for many years.
He was also an active member of the Cattlemen's Association where he enjoyed volunteering at the Casey County Apple Festival with the association.
David attended church services with his wife Jenny throughout their marriage. He was baptized into Christ in 2005 and became a dedicated student of the bible, reading and studying daily throughout the remainder of his life. He served as a deacon at Eubank Church of Christ.
He was a proud and beloved father of his two daughters providing love, support, discipline, guidance, and encouragement. His four grandsons, Ben, Bradley, David, and Daniel benefited from his love and guidance as well. He loved spending time with them on the farm playing in the barn, walking through woods and fields, hunting mushrooms, or just teaching valuable life lessons. All four boys have precious memories of time spent with their Pappaw.
Last but not least was his legacy of candy. From November through Christmas, the kitchen at their home resembled a small candy factory. He made multiple varieties and shared them with family, friends, co-workers of his daughters, as well as the mailman, garbage man, and many others. This was such a special treat that was not only delicious but also made with love.
As David's health declined and he felt his time on this earth was ending, he told his family how he and his wife had lived a good life and he was ready for his reward in heaven. It is this knowledge, that he did live a faithful, Christian life that provides comfort for his family and friends left behind.
A funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Friday, December 20, 2024 at Morris & Hislope Funeral Home with Bro. Barry Lee and Bro. Ferlin Price officiating.
Military Honors will be conducted.
Burial will follow at Mill Springs National Cemetery.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, December 19, 2024 from 6:00 PM-8:00 PM.
Morris & Hislope Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with arrangements.