Snyder

James Wilson Snyder, affectionately known as JW, was born on May 22, 1963, in Alpine, to Clara Nell Snyder and Jimmy Snyder. He passed away on June 7, 2025, at the age of 62, surrounded by his loving family after a brief but courageous battle with an aggressive form of brain cancer. Though his illness progressed swiftly, JW remained true to himself until the very end— expressing his love openly, embracing his family tightly, and staying connected to friends both near and far.

JW is survived by his devoted wife, Jennifer Heritage Snyder, and their beloved son, Wilson Fate Snyder. He was a proud graduate of the Charlotte Independent School District, Class of 1981.

On July 28, 1974, JW accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at First Baptist Church of Charlotte. His faith was strengthened through many summers spent at Glorietta Baptist Encampment and Alto Frio Baptist Camp, where he formed lifelong friendships and built a deep spiritual foundation.

JW spent most of his adult life as a bullfighter. Working alongside some of the best in the business and top tier stock contractors helping create the high energy rodeos and bull ridings that we all enjoy today. He began his career in the International Professional Rodeo Association where his rookie year he was chosen to work the finals. An honor that he would never forget. He was also a member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association, and Professional Bull Riders worked countless events and lived his best life. JW traveled the nation performing for crowds bringing tons of laughter and joy. He built lifelong friendships that remained strong throughout his life.

A proud Texan, JW was the great-great-grandson of Texas Ranger George Washington Sadler, who, with his brothers, helped safeguard the frontier. He was deeply shaped by the strong women in his life—his mother and maternal grandmother—who raised their families with grace and grit after losing their husbands. From them, JW inherited a generous spirit, unwavering hospitality, and an open-door heart—never without a hot pot of coffee ready for visitors.

JW never met a stranger. Known for his boundless kindness, his helping hands, and stories that could fill a room with laughter, he left a lasting mark on everyone he met. A dedicated cattleman, a loyal friend, and a fearless protector in the arena, he bore the scars of his bravery with pride. Though tough and straightforward, he held his loved ones to high standards, always urging them to strive for their best.

He is survived by his wife, Jennifer; his son, Wilson Fate; his sisters, Shelly Saunders (David) of Waller and Kelly Wehmeyer (Robby) of Flatonia; his mother-in-law, Frances Heritage of LaVernia; his brothers-in-law and sisters- in-law, Kenneth Heritage (Cullene) of Imperial, Denyse Parker of LaVernia, Steven Heritage (Darla) of Austin, and Jason Heritage (Chancey) of Roswell, NM. He is also survived by many extended family members and dear friends who will continue to cherish his memory.

JW was preceded in death by his grandparents, Wilson and Vernell Winn; his mother, Clara Nell Snyder; his uncle, Billy Winn; his aunts, Barbara Sonneborn and Irene Allen; and his father-in-law, Frank Martin Heritage.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Flatonia Baptist Church, with a time of fellowship and a light meal to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Flatonia Baptist Church or First Baptist Church of Charlotte.

Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www.lagrangefunerals. com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations in La Grange.