Ben Sneed died of a heart attack on December 29, 2020. Born in New Rochelle on August 28, 1966. He was 54. His family lived in New Rochelle and summered in the historically Black enclave of Sag Harbor. In 1995, he moved to live there year-round.
Sneed earned a degree from NYU and attended one year at New York Law School, deciding if it would be his destiny. A consummate salesman, his successful career culminated in 25 years selling ad space with the East Hampton Independent Newspaper.
Passionate about many things, two of his favorite travel destinations were Madrid, Spain and London, England. He was treated like family each time he returned, about twice a year.
He had lifelong friends across continents. His wife and friends from home would sometimes accompany him to share his love of food, culture, and history.
Sneed was a Master Mason with the Sag Harbor Lodge. Last year he was also awarded the prestigious Freedom of the City of London degree, making him one of only two African Americans, sharing that honor with a famous actor.
He loved photography and spoke several dialects of Spanish impeccably. He was often mistaken for a local when he traveled, even by Madrid’s taxi drivers. He also learned Mandarin Chinese.
Sneed loved life and envisioned growing old with his wife Claudia, continuing to travel and to devour all the knowledge and experiences he possibly could.
He is survived by his wife, his ‘Amor’, Claudia Sneed. He is remembered by his sisters Adrienne JS Quinn and Alison Sneed.
A celebration of his life is to be held this coming spring.