Jackie Wade Snellgrove

Jackie Wade Snellgrove, 78, of Beardstown, died Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Beardstown Nursing and Rehab.

He was born April 12, 1948, in Ty Ty, Georgia, the son of Clarence and Pauline Tomberlin Snellgrove. He married his wife, Joy, in 1977, and she survives in Beardstown.

He is also survived by a son, Eric Snellgrove of Beardstown; and two grandchildren, Dakota and Joseph Snellgrove, both of Beardstown. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Jackie graduated from Albany High School in Georgia and went on to earn a bachelor's degree in biology from the University of Georgia. A lifelong lover of the outdoors, he found great joy in nature and exploring the world around him. He was dedicated to mentoring young people and proudly served as Scoutmaster for Troop 146 in Georgia. Jackie was also an avid ham radio operator who enjoyed connecting with others through his hobby. He and his wife moved to Illinois in 2017 to be closer to their son and grandchildren. He looked forward to his Sunday outings at Los Charros, a simple tradition that brought him much happiness. A man of faith, Jackie was a member of Hoschton Baptist Church and valued the friendships and fellowship he found there.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Burial will be held at a later date. Family and friends are invited to a meal and time of fellowship to celebrate Jackie's life on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at noon at First Southern Baptist Church. Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials have been suggested to Beardstown Health and Rehab Activity Fund. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.