Billie Bob Snelson

Billie Bob Snelson, age 79, of West, passed away Tuesday morning, March 28, 2006 at his residence. Graveside services will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday at Bold Springs Cemetery near West with Dr. John Crowder officiating. Military Graveside Rites will be conducted by V.F.W. Post No. 4819 of West. The family will receive visitors from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Mr. Snelson was born on October 10, 1926 in Hillsboro, the son of James Alford and Callie Aquilla (Brackett) Snelson. He graduated from West High School and received his Bachelor Degree from Baylor University. In serving his country, he joined the United States Navy serving in the Pacific Theatre and fought during World War II. In 1956 he was married to Elna Mae Hand in San Antonio, and she preceded him in death in September of 1959. He then married Vicki Lynn Hill on October 6, 1983 in Riesel. He was a service technician for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company for thirty-eight years until his retirement in 1984. He was a member of West Masonic Lodge and V.F.W. Post No. 4819 of West. For several years, he served on the Bold Springs Cemetery Association Board and was a member of the First Baptist Church of West. He loved to ride motorcycles and also enjoyed aviation. He also loved to watch the Food Channel and the History Channel. He was preceded in death by his brother, James "Blackie" Snelson. Survivors include his beloved wife of 22 years, Vicki Lynn Snelson of West; two sons, Billy Joe Snelson of Portland, Oregon and Bobby Joe Snelson and wife Ana of Elm Mott; one daughter, Sharon Sue Williams and husband Ted of Leesburg, GA; two step-sons, Michael Conn of Indiana and William Bowles and wife Judy of Azle; one step-daughter, Gay Levan and husband Tim of Temple; one sister, Doris Fore and husband Jack of Leesburg, GA; his mother-in-law, Mary Ellen Hill of West; four sisters-in-law, Barbara Snelson of Abilene, Diana Goffinet and husband Dennis of West, Carolyn Degrate of Elm Mott, and Marilyn Verschoor and husband John of Waco; 14 grandchildren: 28 great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.