11/15/2022
Illustrious Dr. James McDaniel Snider, 33˚ passed to the celestial lodge above on November 13, 2022.
Brother Snider was a member of Mountain Lodge No. 99, Frostburg, where he was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on October 17, 1976, as well as Esoteric Lodge of Research No. 237. He was a member of the Valley of Cumberland Scottish Rite Fall Class in October 1978 and a longtime member of the Scottish Rite Research Society. He was recognized by the Supreme Council with the honorary degree of 32nd Knight Commander of the Court of Honour on October 19, 1987 and Coroneted a 33rd Degree Inspector General Honorary on October 19, 2019.
Brother Snider was appointed by the Sovereign Grand Inspector General of the Orient of Maryland as Treasurer of the Valley of Cumberland Scottish Rite in 2022. He was elected as Wise Master of the Chapter of Rose Croix in 2016 and Venerable Master of the Cumberland Lodge of Perfection in 2020 and 2021. He was a longtime Director of the Cumberland Scottish Rite Foundation, where he served as Chairman in 2020 and 2021.
But he was much more than an active and dependable member of the Cumberland Scottish Rite. He was a dear friend, brother, and mentor; someone from whom his brothers would seek advice, instruction, and even correction. Dr. Snider was a lover of knowledge who constantly sought further light in Masonry and consistently reflected those attributes of a prudent and temperate character to which every Mason should aspire. His passing will leave a huge hole in our Valley and in our community.
The family will receive visitors at Upchurch Funeral Home, Greene Street, Cumberland on Thursday, November 17th from 11 am until 1 pm. Masonic services will be conducted by Mountain Lodge No. 99 and Scottish Rite services will be conducted by the Cumberland Knights of St. Andrew beginning promptly at 1:00 pm. Those who wish to participate are requested to arrive no later than 12:45 pm.
