Leland Brooker Snead, Jr.

Leland (Lee) Brooker Snead, Jr., MSgt (Ret.), passed away on Friday, July 24, 2026, at age 99 at his home in Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, Florida. Born on July 21, 1927, in Richmond, Virginia, he was the eldest of four siblings. His family later moved to New Jersey, where he graduated from high school. A devoted son and loving brother, Lee is fondly remembered by his youngest sister, Peggy, as the best big brother.

Lee joined the military in June 1945 and helped repatriate troops returning from World War II. He continued serving through multiple overseas tours and assignments across the United States. During his 23-year career, he served as a World War II-era and Korean War veteran before retiring on July 1, 1968. Guided by his strong belief in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20), Lee viewed the military as his mission field. He shared his faith, mentored many young Christian service members, and remained active in church and youth ministry wherever he was stationed.

Lee married Joan Pister on June 7, 1952, and together they had three daughters. Known as the “Intrepid Adventurers,” the family embraced frequent military moves, explored many countries and states, and shared their parents’ love of travel. Lee was an enthusiastic outdoorsman who enjoyed sports, fishing, camping, and time at the beach. He also valued lifelong learning. His life changed unexpectedly when Joan died on November 11, 1975.

On December 18, 1977, Lee married Grace, and his family grew to include four more children. He started on his second retirement as a manager for Berkeley Pump Company; and after his second retirement, he worked with the St Francis school district teaching special needs children. Together, they continued to enjoy travel, fishing, camping, and family time, sharing 48 years of adventures. Lee and Grace remained active in church and supported missionary work, including visits to their children serving as missionaries in China and Africa.

Lee is survived by his wife, Grace; one sister; seven adult children; twelve grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be scheduled at Village Church in Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, Florida. A military funeral honors ceremony will be held at Rock Island National Cemetery in Rock Island, Illinois. Deeply loved by his family and friends, Lee leaves a legacy of faith, service, and devotion. His family is comforted to know he is now in the presence of his Lord and Savior.

Please keep his family in your prayers today and the days ahead.