Snidow, William Gary

William Gary Snidow, known affectionately as Gary, was born on May 18, 1948, in Pearisburg, Virginia to the late William and Ellen Snidow, and passed away peacefully on November 5, 2023, in Princeton, West Virginia. A man of wisdom and thoughtfulness, Gary’s life was marked by his dedication to his loved ones, his service to his country, and his unyielding faith.

Gary was the cherished husband of Fumiko Yamagami Snidow, whom he married on Valentine’s Day in 1994, marking the beginning of a love story that would span nearly three decades. He was the loving brother of Patricia Woody and her husband Steve of Kingsport, Tennessee, Doyle Snidow and his wife Connie of Pembroke, and Clif Snidow of Chesapeake, VA. He was also a caring uncle to his nieces and nephews, whom he loved as his own: Sean Woody (April) of Vinton, Stephany Wilson (Joc) of Gray, TN, Jessica Eller of Maybrook, VA, Nathan Snidow, and Hunter Snidow of Chesapeake, VA. Gary also held a special place in his heart for his great nieces and nephews: Grace and Hope Woody, and Zoe, Zack, and Zeke Eller. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Ellen Snidow.

Gary was a proud graduate of Giles High School, Class of 1966. His pursuit of knowledge led him to Virginia Tech, where he began studying business. His education was briefly interrupted when he was drafted into the United States Army on June 16, 1969. He served his country with honor, leaving the Army as a SP 5. Upon his return, he completed his education, graduating from Virginia Tech with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business.

Gary’s work history was as diverse as it was distinguished. He was a US Army Veteran, worked in management at Krogers, served as a Surveyor for Jim Grubbs, contributed to the success of Lucas Construction and Dewey Lusk Construction, and was a beloved Bus Driver for Blacksburg Transit. His work ethic and dedication were admired by colleagues and friends alike.

A lifelong member of Mt. Lebanon First United Methodist Church, Gary’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was baptized in his youth and remained a dedicated member throughout his life. His interests were simple and brought him great joy. He was an avid football fan, particularly of the Washington Redskins and Cleveland Browns. He loved spending time at the beach, watching movies, and had a knack for jigsaw puzzles.

As the philosopher Albert Schweitzer once said, “The only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve.” Gary lived these words through his service to his family, his country, his community, and his faith. His thoughtful and wise nature, coupled with his unwavering commitment to the values he held dear, will be remembered by all who knew him.

The family will receive friends for a time of visitation on Saturday, November 11, 2023 from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM in the Kendall Funeral Home Chapel. A funeral service will be conducted Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 2:00 PM in the Kendall Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral services will conclude with military rites given by the US. Army, American Legion, and VFW at Birchlawn Burial Park. A guestbook is available to send condolences to the family by visiting www.kendallfuneralhome.com. The staff of Kendall Funeral Home are honored to serve the Snidow family.