New River Valley legend Sidney Grant Snell, Jr., left this world and joined his parents with our Heavenly Father on Oct. 3, 2020.
Sidney was born Dec. 19, 1958, in Radford to the late Sidney Grant and Nannie Bell Freeman Snell. He had a strong faith and really loved the Lord. Sidney was the best little brother five sisters could have. His love for the five of them was always on display. He will always have their backs even in spirit and they had his till the very end.
Sidney Snell was a once-in-a generation-student athlete. He had an astonishing prep career in football, basketball and track and field at Blacksburg High School. In 1991 he was recognized for his high school accomplishments by being inducted into the Virginia High School Hall of Fame. Sidney was rewarded for his success at Blacksburg High School in 1977 with a scholarship to play football and basketball at Virginia Tech. The family still fondly remembers the visit and offer made by Coach Jimmy Sharp in their Blacksburg home.
His accomplishments continued throughout his college career where Sidney went on to set records on the football field at Virginia Tech. He left Virginia Tech as one of the best players to ever put on the maroon and orange.
Sidney also had a love for softball and golf. He was known to show up, hit a home run or two and leave the ballpark. No matter what he put his hands on he was widely respected among his peers, and you knew you were winning if he was on your team.
Even though Sidney left this world too soon, he lived an extraordinary life. He loved and was loved by so many. His infectious smile, humble spirit and humorous personality were steady foundations of his life and were key reasons why he will be deeply missed. Sidney was such a great man that he helped make everyone feel they were his best friend.
Left to cherish his memory are his most gracious sisters for having such an incredible brother: Doris (Sidney) Lee, Sylvia (Nathaniel) Bishop, LaVern (Lee) Walls, Connie Grant Snell and Denise (Cornell) Howard. He also leaves his beloved dog Kacey. Sidney’s many admiring nieces and nephews will miss his joking and loving ways. Also left to cherish his memories are his aunts, uncles, cousins and dearest friends.
There will be a public viewing today, Saturday, Oct. 10, 2020, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at McCoy Funeral Home in Blacksburg for those who would like to pay their respects. The family will have a private service following In keeping with COVID-19 guidance and restrictions, masks and social distancing must be maintained.
In lieu of flowers the family asks contributions/donations be made to Sylvia Bishop for a developing scholarship in honor of Sidney Snell. Arrangements by McCoy Funeral Home, Blacksburg.
