Rory Colander “Chip” Snell
Rory Colander “Chip” Snell
Rory Colander “Chip” Snell, born March 12, 1965, in Hartford, Alabama, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with esophageal cancer, a fight he began in 2007 and bravely endured until the very end. He was the beloved son of Betty Sue Cato Snell Balcom and the late Roy C. Snell. Chip grew up in Hartford and graduated from Geneva County High School in 1983. Shortly after graduating, he answered the call to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Army, where he served with honor and pride.
Chip was a man of resilience, grit, and quiet strength. Even throughout his long illness, he faced every challenge with dignity and faith, leaving an example of perseverance for all who knew and loved him. His life reflected loyalty to his family, dedication to his country, and a gentle spirit that touched all who spent time with him. Chip took his rest on Wednesday, November 5, 2025.
He was preceded in death by his father, Roy C. Snell; his brother, Johnny LaRoy Snell; his sister, Yvonne Elizabeth Crawford; special Aunt, Mary Snell and a great-nephew, Latrell Washington.
Left to cherish his memory is his devoted mother, Betty Sue Cato Snell Balcom. Chip is also survived by his children, William Cordaryl Snell and Britanie Walters, and one cherished granddaughter, Jac’Lynn Alexander.
Chip’s legacy continues through his loving sisters: Brenda Kirkland Johnson; Terri (Joseph) Norwood; Starla Snell Aldalki; Carla Snell; and Melissa (Calvin) Carpenter. He was a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews who will fondly remember his humor, wisdom, and kindness. Among them are Jaterrio Johnson; Joterian (Riley)Flowers; Chaka Harley; LaRenda (Darrell) Geoffroy; Tachae (Caminiti) Coachman, Markia Reese; Aja (Laderis) Adams; Nia Bynes; Royannon Boyd; and Payton Boyd, as well as nephews Wendell (Eunice) Washington; Brian (Anita) Johnson; Darren (Marie) Johnson; William Molland; and Joe Johnson III.
Chip was also blessed to be surrounded by a large extended family of great-nieces and great-nephews who loved him dearly. These include Harlow and Haven Flowers, Diamond Brown, Taraji Harley, Hyundai Kyles, Maliyah Molland, Alaiya Adams, Jason Adams, Paris Edwards, Aminah Edwards, Kynsley Coachman, Dasani Washington, Savannah Johnson, Ashanti Johnson, Drew Geoffroy, Jadelyn Sistrunk, Kyle Petty, and Kyler Rivers. A special cousin, Lawanda Alston & dedicated friend, Aaron Pennington.
To know Chip was to know quiet strength, a gentle heart, and unwavering love for family. He never sought the spotlight, yet his presence meant everything to those around him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who loved him.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who supported Chip with prayers, care, and kindness throughout his journey.
Funeral services will be 11:00 AM, Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at Prosperity Missionary Baptist Church, 604 Railroad Avenue, in Hartford, AL.
He will be laid to rest in Macedonia Cemetery in Hartford, Alabama, with military honors, under the directions of Christian Memorial Chapel of Graceville, Florida.