Thomas Edgar Snell, a beloved husband, father, and friend, went to be with his Lord on July 24, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on August 12, 1946, in Potsdam, New York, Tom was the cherished son of the late Edgar and Parepa Snell. He dedicated a significant part of his life to serving his country and contributing to his community.
Tom's military service spanned a decade in the United States Navy, during which he honorably served, including during the Vietnam War. He began his naval career with an assignment aboard the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt Submarine, where he developed a solid foundation in submarine electronics. After completing his service, he continued his work in this field, training others and installing electronics on nuclear submarines.
Following his discharge from the Navy, Tom embarked on a remarkable 43-year career in the asphalt industry. Renowned for his genuine character and willingness to share knowledge, he became a mentor to many throughout his career. His colleagues admired him not only for his expertise but also for his kind-hearted nature.
Tom was an alumnus of Wadhams Hall Seminary in Ogdensburg, NY, and attended the Parishville-Hopkinton Central School in Parishville, NY. His academic pursuits laid the groundwork for a life rich with learning, compassion, and service.
A longtime member of Westport Road Baptist Church, Tom found joy and fellowship within his church family, particularly with the FROG Class. He enjoyed participating in church activities and valued the strong connections he built within the community.
Outside of work and church, Tom had an array of interests that highlighted his vibrant personality. He spent time playing Santa for friends, family, and coworkers, embodying the spirit of joy and generosity. He was an enthusiastic gardener and took pride in nurturing his plants. Tom cherished his furry companions, and created lasting memories with Judi on vacations spent in their travel trailer visiting lighthouses.
Tom is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Judith Louise Snell; children Meleta (Todd) Truax, Matthew (Angela) Snell, Todd (Leesa) Baltzley, Eric (Shelby) Baltzley, Heidi (Dan) Cohn, and Katie (Randy) Gordon; along with nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, with one more on the way. He is also survived by his siblings Patrick (Tarania) Snell, Madeline Pennington, Mary (Bill) Wright, Carol (Doug) Johnson, and Malcolm Snell.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at Westport Road Baptist Church, located at 9705 Westport Rd, Louisville, KY 40241, on August 9, 2025, at 11:00 AM, providing a space for family and friends to come together and honor Tom's life and legacy.
Tom will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, generous spirit, and the loving impact he made on countless lives. His legacy will undoubtedly live on through the love he shared and the memories cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
To share a memory of Tom or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.
Westport Road Baptist Church
Visits: 1214
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors