Gerald Ray Snead

Gerald Ray Snead, 77 Nevada, passed away Saturday, May 13, at Mitchell House in Spruce Pine, N.C., after a long term illness. He was born April 9, 1940, in Milo to William Clyde and Josephine (Clark) Snead.

He graduated from Nevada High School in May 1958. He and Mary (Lolley) Snead began their courtship in the spring of their senior year and continued through letters written during his four years in the Air Force, stationed in France. After his return in 1962, Mary agreed to marry him and they became engaged in November. They were married at the First Christian Church of Nevada on Feb. 17, 1963.

Gerald worked at Hertzberg Furniture as a carpet layer for 30 years until his retirement. He worked part time with his son Kenny at Long and Snead Sewer Service until he had to stop for health reasons in February 2001. While their boys were in school, Gerald served as a Cub Scout Leader for Pack 43 and Boy Scout Troop 117. Gerald continued to serve the Boy Scouts after Kenny and Randy had graduated. Gerald was recognized for his service to Scouting earning the Golden Sun and Silver Beaver Awards. He and Mary also enjoyed league bowling and square dancing for several years. Gerald also enjoyed camping and teaching the boys how to fish and hunt. Kenny and Randy were involved in many extracurricular activities growing up and Gerald and Mary could always be found at these events. They were also very involved in their grandchildren’s activities, they could be found at a dance recital with Merissa or with Brett showing livestock. Gerald and Mary enjoyed traveling. If you mentioned something interesting to see they were ready to go. They visited 49 states, Canada and Mexico.

Gerald was preceded in death by his wife Mary and is survived by his sons Kenny (Marla) of Linville Falls, N.C., and Randy (Joann) of Lowell, Mass.; grandchildren, Merissa, of Lowell, and Brett, of Nevada. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Olive Fern Boatright, Flossie Smith and Frances Cost; and his brother, William Roscoe Snead. Gerald is survived by a sister-in-law, Janet Snead; and brother-in-law, George Lolley; and many nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, May 22, at Moore Cemetery in Nevada with Pastor David Rorabaugh officiating. Friends may call now and until the hour of service at Ferry Funeral Home.

Memorials are suggested to Vernon County Youth Fair in care of Ferry Funeral Home.

You may view obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com.