ARKADELPHIA — Roy Edward Snider Jr.,

81, of Arkadelphia, Arkansas, died Saturday, March 14, 2020, at Baptist Medical Center in Little Rock. A Smackover native, Ed graduated from Camden High School and then earned a business degree from Ouachita Baptist University in 1960 where he was named the Outstanding Senior in his class. He served four years in the United States Army where he met the love of his life and future bride, Betty Lynn McKenzie. He went on to complete a degree at the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University.

Ed worked in the banking industry for nearly 50 years. He worked at financial institutions in Camden, Paragould, Pine Bluff, Fordyce and Arkadelphia and was recognized by his peers with numerous awards and honors, including being on the Arkansas Industrial Development Commission and receiving the Purple Heart Award as a distinguished alumnus of OBU. He served on many boards including the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and the Arkansas Baptist Foundation. But it was later in life that he received his favorite award and honor of all … to be called GrandEd by his six grandchildren.

Ed served with all of his heart in many capacities as a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Arkadelphia. His hope and faith in God through Jesus Christ shaped his purpose as much of his life was dedicated to helping and serving others. He truly believed that God placed all of us on this earth to bless others and he did his best to live that out.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Edward Snider Sr., and Ruby Snider, and a son, Scott McKenzie Snider. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Betty Lynn Snider; two brothers, Clyde Snider (Joyce) and Bob Snider (Martha) of Little Rock; son, Steve Snider (Beth) of Little Rock; daughter-in-law, Mary Fahoum (Yousef); six grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Much love and thanks to the people of Twin Rivers Nursing Home in Arkadelphia. A memorial service honoring him will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ouachita Baptist University or LifeCHAMPS Youth Sports. Arrangements are entrusted to Ruggles-Wilcox Funeral Home. ruggleswilcox.com.