JB Snelson

JB Snelson slipped into heaven, at his home, on Saturday, June 21, 2025. JB was born on June 11, 1942, and had just celebrated his 83rd birthday with his family. He was the son of the late Herman Woodrow and Edna Rice Snelson. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Alma Lee Ferguson Snelson, his brother, Johnny Woodrow Snelson, and his sister, Peggy Jean Taylor.

JB was a natural born leader with a servant’s heart. JB and Alma left their mark on the Leicester community in such an impactful way. Neither would have ever sought any personal glory or honor for anything they did. He founded Leicester Carpet in 1971. What started out as a business in their basement with $1000 and a pickup truck grew into the largest flooring business in the region. JB would always say I’m in the service business – never referring to it any other way, that was his benchmark customer service. JB also served for many years as the President of the Leicester Community Center. He and Alma left a lasting impact working tirelessly to raise money to improve their community. JB also served on the Leicester volunteer fire department as a first responder for many years.

JB showed his faith by being the hands of Jesus, and his favorite Bible hero was Joshua. He led numerous mission trips with Newfound Baptist Church. This is how he shared God’s love to those around him, by serving. His leadership and willingness to teach others shaped countless lives. Many men now use skills learned from JB as their professions.

JB was also a veteran of the US Army and served our country in the Vietnam War, and earned a purple heart for his acts of bravery.

He is survived by his daughter, Lynne Snelson Dorsey and son, Jay Bradrick Snelson and his wife Melanie Reid Snelson.

But his greatest title in life was that of Pap. He leaves behind six grandchildren, Chesney, Savannah, Bradshaw and True Snelson and Will and Jed Dorsey. They will proudly carry on the legacy and life of their Pap and continue to serve those around them.

Special thanks go to Loretta Rice, Amy Messer and Lisa Penley for caring for and loving JB so well in the past two years.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 25 at Newfound Baptist Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family would love to hear a story of how JB impacted your life for his grandchildren and future generations to know their Pap. They may be sent to Leicester Carpet, 119 New Leicester Hwy, Asheville, NC 28806. Donations may be made to Newfound Baptist Church.