James L

Sneed

James L. Sneed, a devoted public servant, veteran, and community leader, passed away on May 16, 2026.

James was born on August 17, 1944, in Toledo, Ohio, to William Thomas Sneed and Louise Murphy Sneed.

He spent his early years in Toledo, attending Washington School before moving to Adams Township, where he continued his education at Mount Vernon and Ryder Schools. He later attended Rogers High School, where he excelled both academically and athletically. Jim was a dedicated student-athlete, playing football and running track for four years and participating in basketball for two years, lettering in all sports.

At an early age, Jim confessed his faith in Christ and was baptized at St. Paul Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Joseph Smith.

Following his graduation from Rogers High School in May 1963, Jim began working at the White Hut before moving on to Interlake Iron, where he worked on the coke ovens. During this time, he received a draft notice and served his country honorably as a Vietnam War veteran. After completing his service, he returned to Toledo and resumed his work at Interlake Iron. He was also a proud member of Hyatt Allen Post #538.

On April 1, 1968, Jim began a distinguished career with the Toledo Police Department, where he served for 25 years. During his tenure, he played a significant role in advancing equity and opportunity within law enforcement. He became the second elected president of the Afro American Patrolmen's League of Toledo and helped establish its connection to the Midwest Regional Black Police Organization. He also participated in the formation of the National Black Police Association. As president, Jim courageously worked alongside attorney Merritt Green III in a successful federal class-action lawsuit against the City of Toledo Police Department addressing discriminatory practices.

Jim's commitment to service extended beyond law enforcement. He held positions with the Lucas County Youth Treatment Center, Society Bank Security, Toledo Public Schools, Rogers High School, Toledo Lucas County Public Library, Kroger, and Foodtown. He also served as a special bodyguard for notable figures such as Benjamin Hooks of the NAACP, Sammy Davis Jr., Rosie Grier, The O'Jays, James Brown, Isaac Hayes, and Senator Edmund Muskie.

Throughout his life, Jim received numerous awards and recognitions, including the Blue Star Medal, Certificates of Appreciation, and Outstanding Service Awards from the Afro American Patrolmen's League. He furthered his education through various criminal justice programs at Essex County College, Atlanta University, Cuyahoga Community College, and Jackson State University.

Jim found great joy in fellowship and recreation. He loved traveling with the Quality Travelers of Toledo, exploring destinations such as Chicago, New Orleans, Cancun, and the Bahamas. He enjoyed hunting in the fall with family and friends, playing golf, and sharing daily breakfasts with his close-knit breakfast group. In addition, Jim loved to cook, BBQ, create his own bbq sauce, make lemon ice cream, and bottle his homemade wine.

Jim was proceeded in death by his parents, William Thomas Sneed and Louise Murphy Sneed; step-mother: Josephine McFarland Sneed, his sisters, Phyllis Sneed and Bonita Scott; his brothers, William Sneed, Gary Sneed, and William Thompson; and his nephew, Lamar Sneed.

He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Danielle (Aaron) Johnson; his son, LaRon Bankston; his step-son, Marc (Angela) Loving; his grandsons, Aaron Johnson II, Aaric Johnson, Christopher Bankston, and Jayden Bankston; his great-grandson, Aaron Johnson III; his sister, Gloria Sneed; his step-sister, JoLynn Lewis; along with a host of loving relatives and dear friends.

James L. Sneed will be remembered as a man of unwavering dedication to his community. His legacy of leadership, advocacy, and compassion will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.