James Matthews Snyder

James Matthews Snyder, 82, of Palestine, IL, passed away on December 6, 2024, at Arbor Rose of Robinson, IL, surrounded by the love of his family. Every life tells a story, and Jim’s was a tale of humor, generosity, and boundless love—a story that began unexpectedly on November 12, 1942, in Robinson. In an era without sonograms, Jim’s arrival as the second of surprise twins was the first of many times he’d remind the world that the best things often happen when you least expect them. Born two months early and small enough to fit in a shoebox, Jim and his twin brother Billy slept in a dresser drawer their first nights at home, defying the odds and setting the tone for lives filled with resilience. From those tiny beginnings, Jim grew into a big-hearted man who left an equally outsized legacy in his beloved community of Palestine, where he lived, laughed, and loved deeply for over eight decades. Jim’s childhood was a patchwork of adventures and mishaps, stitched together with a lot of laughter (and a little mischief.) He and Billy were inseparable, partners in everything from baseball games to fast rides down Main Street. Cars were his early passion—a trusty 1954 Mercury and a gleaming 1956 Chevy were his first loves (though they’d have competition when Jim met Eldonna years later!)

A proud 1960 graduate of Palestine High School, Jim picked up his first set of barber shears shortly after and never let go, keeping his license current throughout his life. Cutting hair wasn’t just a job for Jim—it was a way to connect with people. Whether at Jim & Joe’s Barber Shop in Palestine or Sir Barber Shop in Robinson, Jim’s chair was a place where stories were swapped, laughter flowed, and friendships were forged. In 1975, Jim made a career change, joining Marathon as a janitor and eventually became a custodian in the office before managing the custodial group. He called it the best job he ever had—a testament to his pride in honest work and his appreciation for life’s simple joys. He retired in 1997, but his energy and zest for life never slowed. Speaking of speed, Jim’s passion for NASCAR took him to the Daytona 500 nearly every year for two decades, and he and Eldonna felt at home in Florida every time they vacationed there. They traveled far and wide, from Hawaii to Mexico, but it was the Sunshine State that held their hearts.

A man of many talents, Jim’s hands were never idle. When his kids were in the Scouts, he crafted pinewood derby cars so aerodynamic that they had a streak of victories to rival any NASCAR driver! He could fix anything, build anything, and loved doing it all. His greatest projects, though, weren’t made of wood or metal—they were the relationships he built and the lives he touched. After all, Jim’s generosity was legendary. Whether helping neighbors with home repairs, driving someone to the doctor, or volunteering at the Senior Citizen Center in Palestine, he gave of himself freely, time and again. He gave countless hours to the Palestine Masonic Lodge #849, where he was raised on November 14, 1967, and later served as Past Master. Through the Masonic Lodge, Jim exemplified the principles of brotherly love, relief, and truth. His leadership within the Lodge left a lasting impact, as did his involvement in the Ainad Shrine. These roles were not mere affiliations to Jim—they were opportunities to give back and uplift others.

It should come as no surprise that Jim’s life was one of deep faith. A lifelong member of Palestine First Christian Church, Jim served as both a deacon and trustee. Whether overseeing church operations or quietly lending a hand to those in need, Jim’s servant heart was evident in all he did. What we cherished most in him—the kindness in his heart, the laughter in his voice, the unwavering love in his actions—was the unmistakable evidence of Christ at work in his life. Jim’s joy, his generosity, and his deep well of forgiveness weren’t just reflections of who he was, but of the Savior he followed. Now, by the grace of God, Jim has stepped into the fullness of that joy. He is with his Savior, face to face with the One who shaped his life. So, while we mourn his passing, we hold fast to the hope of a glorious reunion one day in that place where death is a memory and tears are no more.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 50 years, Eldonna (Garrard) Snyder, and a legacy of love carried on by his children: Lisa Snyder, Troy & Debbie Snyder, and Robert Coulter II; his grandchildren: Zachary Weger, Wylie Weger, Megan Weger, Maci Runyon, Ryndi Runyon, Whitney Snyder, Mariah Snyder, Cody Fredrickson, Tyler Fredrickson, and John Robert Coulter; and his great-grandchildren: Adelynn Weger, Weston Weger, and Legend Swingler. He is also survived by his siblings-in-law: Marilyn Manhart, Randy & Rita Garrard, and Genelle Weger; his special niece, Julie McDaniel Willman; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James William Snyder & Maxine (Matthews) Snyder; his twin brother, William Lee Snyder; and his infant sister, Sara Kay Snyder.

A visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday, December 9th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine, immediately followed by a Masonic service at 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 10th, at the funeral home, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. During the service, family and friends will have the opportunity to share their thoughts or favorite memories of this beloved man. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be live-streamed at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream . Following the funeral, a committal service conducted by Pastor Dennis Steckley will be held, with Jim being laid to rest in the Palestine Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to “Palestine Masonic Lodge #849.” Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.