Horace Eugene Snowden was born on July 24, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois and from the start, he embodied resilience, discipline, and an undeniable strength of character. Anyone who spent time with him knew his mantra—he was, and always will be, “a strong Black man.”

His journey was one of determination and grit. In 1963, he graduated from Tilden Technical High School, where he had already begun showcasing leadership as a Lieutenant Colonel in the ROTC. Five years later, he made his way to California, launching his career as a manager at Western Electric.

Never one to rest on his accomplishments, he pursued his education while working, earning his Bachelor of Arts in Management from Saint Mary's College of California in 1980. Over the years, he built a distinguished career at Bell South, AT&T, and Lucent Technologies, later retiring with great prestige from Graybar.

Horace was a man of passion, adventure, and joy. He found happiness in traveling (especially cruises), and had an impeccable eye for home and yard décor. He had a deep appreciation for cars, loved bowling with the Old Strokers, seeing live music concerts and never passed up an opportunity to dance.

In addition to cherishing time with his loved ones, and showing off his dance moves and impressive musical knowledge, he had a special place in his heart for his first and only dog, Bosco.

Beyond his interests, Horace was a mentor, an activist and noted Fundraising Chairman with the Placer County Democrats, and a man who believed in staying connected. His organization skills were legendary—everything had its place, and everyone had a plan, even if they didn’t know it yet.

If you needed advice, Horace would give it to you straight, often with that unique “Horace” humor. And if you were lucky enough to receive one of his Christmas cards each year, you knew it was more than just a holiday tradition—it was his way of reminding you that you mattered.

Above all, Horace was a warm and doting husband to Dolores Snowden, with whom he shared over 30 beautiful years of love and partnership. Their journey together was one of strength, resilience, and deep affection, a true testament to what it means to walk through life side by side.

And while today our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in one of the greatest gifts he left us—the peace of knowing where he is now. In the final months of his life, Horace accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior. That decision brings us reassurance that though we miss him deeply, this is not goodbye—it is simply “see you soon.”

Horace is survived by his beloved wife, Dolores Snowden; his daughters, Yvette Pylant and Minette Snow; his grandchildren, Amaya Snow, Saraya Snow, and Ashley Ryan; his siblings, Corrine Grant, Clinnette Snowden, Kinnell Snowden, and Keith Snowden; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends who will continue to carry his memory forward.

His impact on this world is immeasurable. He taught us to stand strong and independently, think ahead, be intentional with our words and actions, and love deeply. 

Horace is survived by his beloved wife, Dolores Snowden; his daughters, Yvette Pylant and Minette Snow; his grandchildren, Amaya Snow, Saraya Snow, and Ashley Bryant; his siblings, Corrine Grant, Clinnette Snowden, Kinnell Snowden, and Keith Snowden; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends who will continue to carry his memory forward.

His impact on this world is immeasurable. He taught us to stand strong and independently, think ahead, be intentional with our words and actions, and love deeply.

As we celebrate Horace’s incredible life, let’s honor him the way he would want—by sharing stories, laughter, and carrying his lessons forward. Let’s remember him as he was: strong, wise, loving, always ready with a comeback...and a joke that was slightly, or entirely inappropriate.

Horace, we love you. We miss you. And we thank God for the gift of your life.

Rest well, and we’ll see you again soon.

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