John Snow
MURPHY – Former state senator, district court judge and prosecutor John Snow, 80, of Murphy, died June 16 after a long battle with dementia.
In recognition of the life and service of Judge and former State Senator Snow, flags at all Town of Murphy municipal buildings were flown at half staff from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, in conjunction with his funeral.
"Judge Snow dedicated much of his life to serving our community, our region, the State of North Carolina, and our country," said Murphy Mayor Tim Radford. "He served as a judge, Chief District Court Judge, state senator, Army officer, and devoted member of the Murphy community.
"His legacy of faith, service, integrity, and love for family will continue to inspire those who knew him, and his impact on Murphy will be felt for generations," Radford said.
Snow was born on Oct. 24, 1945, in Asheville, to the late John Joyner Snow, Sr. and Dorothy Nix Snow Mason.
He was raised in Murphy and graduated from Murphy High School in 1963. He attended Wake Forest University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and distinguished himself as a standout football player. In 1967, he was selected in the NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints, one of the league's newest franchises at the time. Although honored by the opportunity to play professional football, his path ultimately led him to military service, law, and public service.
Following college, served in the U.S. Army before returning to Wake Forest University School of Law, earning his Juris Doctor degree in 1970.
After practicing law and serving as an Assistant District Attorney, he was appointed and later elected as a district court judge. He served 32 years to the administration of justice, including serving as chief district court judge. As a District Court Judge, John was a strong advocate for children and was instrumental in the development and support of the Guardian ad Litem program in Cherokee County.
Later, he represented Western North Carolina as a member of the N.C. Senate from 2005 until 2011.
His funeral was held June 20 at Murphy First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Wil Posey officiating. Interment was at Sunset Cemetery.