James O. Snell

James Otis Snell, “Otis” to his family, and “Jim” to his many friends, was born to the union of Otis and Eula Mae Snell, on June 30, 1942, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was the third child born of the family.

He was united in Holy Matrimony to Sarah Snell in February 1974. To this union a daughter, Janeen Antoninette was born on Tuesday, March 13, 1975.

He received a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Cincinnati. He was employed as a Hamilton County Probation Officer for over 25 years and worked security for the Cincinnati Reds and Bengals, various rock concerts and international sporting events.

With co-workers who became friends, and friends who became family, Otis never met a stranger, and his gregarious smile greeted all who knew him. His work ethic was unmatched, and he held immense pride in providing for his family and friends. Whether by land, air or sea, he never missed an opportunity to travel with his wife and sisters.

Jim was an avid and loyal fan of the Cincinnati Bengals (he attended Superbowl XXIII), the Cincinnati Reds (he and Sarah attended the 1990 World Series) and tuned in faithfully to every Fighting Irish and UC Bearcats game.

Otis had a positive and hopeful disposition, often texting friends and family with a morning greeting such as “Oh, what a wonderful day it is!” Viewing the world as “glass half-empty” was simply not his vibe. If you had a problem that was truly out of your control, his sage advice would often come in two words: “Oh, well!” If you knew Jim Snell, you knew that dwelling on the negative was simply not an option.

Otis was preceded in death by: both parents, Otis and Eula Mae Snell; his brother, A.W. Matthews; his sister, Myrtle Jefferson; his wife, Sarah Snell; and his stepson, Tony Allen.

He leaves to cherish his memory and legacy: two daughters, Janeen Snell and Yvette Harris; one sister, Rosa Snell; six grandchildren, Anthony Collins, Antoinette Latham, Tasha Collins McKee, Sarah Collins Lenoir, Quintez (Tez) Collins and Shayla (Shay) Collins; and a host of loving greatgrandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

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