Rufus Sneed was born in Vidalia, Georgia, to the late Dolphus and Amie Sneed on April 20, 1940. He entered into eternal rest on August 27, 2025.

He attended JD Dickerson Training School and, upon graduation, relocated to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Mr. Sneed was employed by Phelps Distributing Company for many years.

Through each season of his life, Rufus Sneed sought God’s guidance and embraced the calling to serve. He learned early the values of humility, compassion, and devotion—virtues that would shape his ministry and relationships. Moving to Philadelphia, he dedicated himself to diligent work and spiritual growth, finding purpose not only in his labor but also through study at Manna Bible Institute. His ordination marked a new chapter, one of shepherding souls, preaching truth, and gently leading his congregation at Little Rock Tabernacle Baptist Church.

On August 31, 1963 he was untied in Holy Matrimony to Rose Ann Eagleton. Their marriage brought partnership and joy. Together they built a life rooted in faith, extending love to family, godchildren, and community. Retirement did not diminish his zeal; instead, service continued in Florence, South Carolina, where he became Associate Minister at Spring Branch Baptist Church, encouraging others to walk boldly in faith.

Across decades, Rufus Sneed’s legacy as a preacher shines in the lives he touched. He lived as a testament to grace, steadfast in prayer, generous in kindness, and unwavering in his commitment to share Christ’s message. Surrounded by family and friends, his journey reminds us that a preacher’s greatest sermon is not only spoken from the pulpit, but lived every day through acts of faith, hope, and love.

Mr. Sneed is survived by his wife of 62 years, Rose Ann Sneed; his son, Ron (Tiana) Sneed of Philadelphia, PA; two grandsons, Elijah Sneed of Camden, NJ, and Noah Sneed of Philadelphia, PA; goddaughters Sonja Wright and Tara Scott of Philadelphia, PA; godson Shanod Guile of Florence, SC; brother, Howard Sneed of Detroit, MI; sisters Margaret Corbin of Conley, GA, and Loraine (George) Bartos of Murrells Inlet, SC; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.