BROOKINGS, Ore. — James Franklin Snead, 77, son of James Daniel and Helen Tordiff (Snead) of Ironton, passed away in Brookings, Ore., Friday, May 19, 2010. He was 77.
Jim was born in Ironton, graduating from high school in 1952 and that summer Jim and Lois Ann Justice were married. Jim was drafted in the military and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force with his first year of service (and marriage) stationed in Tripoli, Libya. Upon his return to the states and during his 26-year military career he and Lois were assigned to several U.S. Air Force bases in South Dakota, Florida, Panama, New Mexico, Mississippi and California. Jim also served his country during conflict in South East Asia while stationed in Thailand where he crewed on small spotter aircraft flying 59 night missions over combat zones. While serving his country, Jim also earned his undergraduate degree and a master’s degree in business administration before retiring with the highest enlisted rank of Chief Master Sergeant. Following his retirement from the military Jim was a medical practice office administrator in California for several years while planning his final career goal of becoming an outstanding retired fisherman. Jim and Lois realized this dream when he bought his boat and moved to Brookings in 1989. When Jim was not fishing he devoted his time to the Brookings Elks Lodge serving as Exalted Ruler 1994-95 as well as calling bingo for 18 years. Jim was also Oregon State Trustee for the Elks, Life Member of the Elks and Earned State Awards for the Brookings Lodge as Exalted Ruler. Jim was also a life member of VFW. Jim sacrificed Sunday morning fishing to be a devoted member of Trinity Lutheran Church, although attendance may have slipped on occasion during salmon season.
Jim is survived by his wife, Lois, and sons, James (Jr) of Southlake, Texas, and Larry Snead of Folsom, Calif. Jim’s grandchildren are Brooke Snead, Megan Snead, Corey Snead and James D. Snead.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Condolences may be expressed online at www.redwoodmemorial.net.