Nellie Snead

Nellie Jean Snead was born March 16, 1930, to Nellie and C.W. Sullivan in Delia, N.M. She passed away on Sept. 15, 2018, in Post Falls, Idaho.

Jean was born into a family of 11 children. They all had to work hard to survive. For a while, Jean and her dad were each milking 14 cows before school each morning. Up until the week of her passing, her handshake would testify of that strength. She was the last one of her family.

Jean married young and started her family, that grew into 10 children. Karen Lynnett (Gary) Kelly, James Everett (Sue) Snead, Jr., Patricia Lorraine McDougall (deceased), Alice Faye Sampson, Beverly Annette (Rick) McCollum, JoRene Woodworth, Edna Marie (A.C.) Kary, Samuel Allen Snead (deceased), Roxie Lynn (Jason) Davis, and Treva Ellyn (Nolan) Gaul.

One of Jean’s dreams that came true was moving to Montana. In 1966, the family settled in the Bitterroot Valley. In 1968, she found herself alone raising 10 children. Looking back, all of her children are amazed at what a brave woman she was. She did not complain of her lot in life, but went bravely on. If asked her secret, she would say, “It is my faith in God who has never failed me.” Matthew 6:33: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

One of Jean’s favorite jobs was working for the County Extension Service, teaching folks how to make nutritious meals on a small budget. Her children really were her life. She dearly loved all of her grandchildren. Several lived with her at one time or another. Then came great-grandchildren, who she was so excited to meet or even to see the photos.

In 1974, Jean moved to Paradise, Mont., to be nearer to most of her children, and spent many happy years there before moving to Idaho.

Graveside service were held on Sept. 21 in Plains, Mont.